India, a land steeped in history and a vibrant tapestry of cultures, has exquisite public libraries, which highlight a remarkable legacy of knowledge and learning, beautifully preserved and fostered within its public libraries. These institutions, far from being mere repositories of books, serve as vibrant centers for cultural exchange, intellectual discourse, and community engagement. From ancient marvels housing invaluable manuscripts to modern facilities embracing the digital age.
here are 11 must-visit exquisite public libraries across India –
- The National Library of India, Kolkata: Standing proudly as India’s largest library, the National Library of India in Kolkata boasts a history stretching back to 1836. Re-established after independence as the National Library, it was formally opened to the public on January 30, 1903, at Metcalf Hall in Kolkata and later shifted to the present Belvedere Estate, being inaugurated by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad on February 1, 1953 . It serves as a depository for all Indian publications and acts as a central hub for preserving the country’s printed heritage, encompassing over 2.5 million items including maps, periodicals, and manuscripts. The library is a significant institution for researchers and academics, offering a wealth of resources for studying India’s history, culture, and various fields of knowledge.
- Delhi Public Library, New Delhi: The Delhi Public Library (DPL) was established in 1951 as a collaborative project between UNESCO and the Government of India, envisioned as a model public library system for India and potentially other developing countries. As one of the busiest libraries in South-East Asia, it plays a crucial role in promoting literacy and access to information, serving as a national depository library and receiving a copy of every book published in India. The DPL provides a wide range of services to the public, including lending and reference services, a children’s department, and a braille library, making it an invaluable resource for the diverse population of Delhi.
- Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu: One of Asia’s oldest libraries, the Saraswathi Mahal Library in Thanjavur, dating back to the 16th century. Originally established by the Nayak kings, it was further developed by the Maratha rulers, particularly Maharaja Serfoji II. This treasure trove houses an impressive collection of over 49,000 manuscripts, primarily in Tamil and Sanskrit, along with Marathi, Telugu, and other languages, preserved on palm leaves and paper. The library also boasts a museum featuring rare books and artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s literary and cultural heritage.
- Anna Centenary Library, Chennai, Tamil Nadu: The Anna Centenary Library (ACL) in Chennai is a modern and architecturally striking facility that opened in 2010. Named after former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai, this nine-floor library spans 8 acres and can accommodate up to 1.25 million books, utilizing an integrated library management system with RFID technology for efficient operations. Beyond its vast collection, the ACL offers a variety of amenities, including a dedicated children’s section, a Braille section for the visually impaired, and an auditorium, making it a prominent hub for learning and culture in the region.
- Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library, Panaji, Goa: Established in 1832 by the Portuguese Viceroy of Goa, this library’s official site claims that it is the oldest Public Library in India . Originally known as the Publica Livraria of the Academia Militar de Goa, it evolved through several name changes, including Bibliotheca Nacional de Nova Goa, and later Bibliotheca National Vasco da Gama . The library’s collection includes over 1.8 lakh books in various languages, with a significant portion dating back to the pre-1961 Portuguese era. It serves as a depository library for books published in Goa, playing a vital role in preserving the region’s unique history and literature, including rare Goan newspapers and manuscripts.
- Allahabad Public Library, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh: Founded in 1864, the Allahabad Public Library, also known as the Government Public Library, is Uttar Pradesh’s largest and oldest library. Housed in the architecturally significant Thornhill Mayne Memorial building, designed by Richard Roskell Bayne in Scottish Baronial Revival style, it boasts a collection of approximately 125,000 books, along with rare Arabic manuscripts, old government publications, parliamentary papers, and 19th-century journals. The library’s historical significance is further enhanced by its role as the house of the legislative assembly during the British Raj when Allahabad was the capital of the United Provinces.
- Smt. Hansa Mehta Library, Vadodara, Gujarat: Established on May 1, 1950, and named after Smt. Hansa Mehta, the first Vice-Chancellor of The M.S. University of Baroda, this library serves as the central library for the university and is one of the largest among all university libraries in Gujarat. It holds nearly half a million books, periodicals, DVDs, videos, and the university archives. The library provides ample space for reading and research, with a large reading room capable of accommodating approximately 1100 readers at a time, and offers services for 14 hours a day, throughout the year, except on national holidays.
- Connemara Public Library, Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Opened to the public in 1896, the Connemara Public Library in Chennai holds a distinguished position as one of India’s four National Depository Libraries. It is housed within the Government Museum Complex, a cultural complex that exhibits various stages of Indo-Saracenic architectural development. The library’s extensive collection includes over 600,000 books, along with academic journals, magazines, Braille books, manuscripts, and serves as a depository library for the United Nations. Its neo-Gothic architecture and historical significance make it a prominent landmark and a valuable resource for research and learning.
- State Central Library, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: One of India’s oldest libraries, the State Central Library in Thiruvananthapuram, also known as the Trivandrum Public Library, was founded in 1829 during the reign of Sree Swathi Thirunal Maharaja of Travancore. Its name originates from the entrance portico, featuring the inscription “Victoria Diamond Jubilee Library”. The library’s extensive collection includes over 4.6 lakh books and a special children’s library. It also houses rare materials and serves as an important resource for researchers and readers of all ages.
- State Central Library, Hyderabad, Telangana: The State Central Library in Hyderabad, previously known as the Asafia Library, was established in 1891 and is now a designated heritage site. Built on the banks of the River Musi, it boasts an imposing structure with huge halls and high ceilings, reflecting palace-like architecture. It holds a vast collection of 500,000 books and magazines, including rare palm-leaf manuscripts and materials on various subjects, from legal and cultural history to science, technology, and regional literature. The library has played a significant role in shaping the literate and urban population of Hyderabad and Telangana.
- David Sassoon Library and Reading Room, Mumbai, Maharashtra: A Grade One UNESCO World Heritage site, the David Sassoon Library and Reading Room in Mumbai is a heritage structure, built between 1867 and 1870 in Victorian Neogothic style, utilizing buff-colored trachyte (Malad stone) and limestone. Initially established as the Sassoon Mechanics Institute, it was later renamed in honour of Sir David Sassoon, who funded its construction. Following a recent restoration, the library has regained its old charm, with its original architectural features like chandeliers, long tables, and banker-style lamps preserved. It currently houses 30,000 books, including a rare collection on Jewish history, alongside periodicals and magazines in various languages, and is now Wi-Fi enabled, offering a blend of traditional and modern services to its visitors.
similar reads – 15 best libraries in India , top 7 libraries in New York
