Top 10 Libraries in India

Top 10 Libraries in India well-known for their extensive holdings, historical relevance, and contributions to learning and scholarship. This thorough tour explores the nation’s most esteemed libraries, highlighting their vast archives, uncommon manuscripts, and cutting-edge infrastructure. From mediaeval text vaults dating back thousands of years to modern digital learning hubs, libraries play a critical role in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. Find more about their remarkable architectural works, one-of-a-kind collections, and services for book lovers, scholars, and students. Some of the most esteemed libraries in the world, with enormous holdings of books, manuscripts, and digital resources, are located in India. These are India’s top ten libraries, chosen for their notable historical relevance and vast collections.

1. National Library of India

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1836
Location	Kolkata, West Bengal
Collection Size	Over 2.2 million books
Unique Feature	Largest library in India
Website	nationallibrary.gov.in

National Library of India – Top 10 Libraries in India

The National Library of India is a treasure trove of knowledge with extensive collections in various languages and subjects. The National Library of India is a significant national institution and the largest library in the nation in terms of volume. It holds an extensive library of manuscripts, books, and journals.

Also read: Top 10 Event Companies in India

2. Delhi Public Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1951
Location	New Delhi
Collection Size	Over 1.8 million books
Unique Feature	Extensive network of branches
Website	dpl.gov.in

Delhi Public Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

Delhi Public Library serves as a major public library system in the capital city, providing access to a vast array of resources. The Delhi Public Library is a network of libraries that provides access to a large collection of books, periodicals, and online materials. It is renowned for both its large collection and user-friendly services.

Also read: Top 10 Women in Tech Startups in India

3. Asiatic Society Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1804
Location	Mumbai, Maharashtra
Collection Size	Over 100,000 books and manuscripts
Unique Feature	Rare manuscripts and first editions
Website	asiaticsociety.org.in

Asiatic Society Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is a haven for researchers and historians, housing rare manuscripts and historical documents.

One of the oldest libraries in India, the Asiatic Society Library in Mumbai is renowned for its priceless and uncommon holdings, which include books, maps, and manuscripts.

Also read: Top 10 Digital Transformation Startups in India

4. Anna Centenary Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	2010
Location	Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Collection Size	Over 1.2 million books
Unique Feature	Modern architecture and facilities
Website	annacentenarylibrary.org

Anna Centenary Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is known for its extensive collection and modern facilities, making it a popular destination for book lovers and researchers. Modern, state-of-the-art library housing a sizable collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources is Anna Centenary Library.

Also read: Top 10 Platforms in India to get Remote Work

5. Saraswathi Mahal Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1700s
Location	Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Collection Size	Over 60,000 volumes
Unique Feature	Ancient manuscripts and palm leaf collections
Website	tnjarsaraswathimahal.tn.gov.in

Saraswathi Mahal Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This historic library is renowned for its collection of ancient manuscripts and palm leaf texts. One of the oldest libraries in India, Saraswathi Mahal Library is renowned for its holdings of antiquated literature and rare manuscripts.

Also read: Top 10 Telecommmunications Startups in India

6. State Central Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1891
Location	Hyderabad, Telangana
Collection Size	Over 500,000 books
Unique Feature	Extensive collection and digital resources
Website	telanganastatelibrary.org

State Central Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is a major repository of knowledge, serving the educational and research needs of the community. One of the biggest libraries in India is the State Central Library in Hyderabad, which has an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources.

Also read: Top 10 Gaming Startups in India

7. David Sassoon Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1870
Location	Mumbai, Maharashtra
Collection Size	Over 70,000 books
Unique Feature	Victorian Gothic architecture
Website	davidsassoonlibrary.com

David Sassoon Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is a landmark in Mumbai, offering a serene reading environment and a vast collection of books. One of Mumbai’s oldest and most exquisite libraries, the David Sassoon Library is renowned for both its vast book collection and its exquisite architecture.

Also read: Top 10 Podcasting Startups in India

8. Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1891
Location	Patna, Bihar
Collection Size	Over 21,000 manuscripts
Unique Feature	Rare oriental manuscripts and texts
Website	kblibrary.bih.nic.in

Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is a center of oriental studies, known for its rare and valuable collections. Scholars from all over the world are drawn to the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library because of its vast collection of rare manuscripts and oriental writings.

Also read: Top 10 Green Energy Startups in India

9. Connemara Public Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1896
Location	Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Collection Size	Over 600,000 books
Unique Feature	Designated depository library
Website	connemaralibrary.gov.in

Connemara Public Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is a vital resource for students, researchers, and book lovers in Chennai. One of Chennai’s largest public libraries, Connemara Public Library has an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources.

Also read: Top 10 Solar Companies in India

10. Rampur Raza Library

ASPECT	DETAILS
Established	1774
Location	Rampur, Uttar Pradesh
Collection Size	Over 17,000 manuscripts
Unique Feature	Mughal miniature paintings and manuscripts
Website	razalibrary.gov.in

Rampur Raza Library – Top 10 Libraries in India

This library is known for its rich collection of Mughal documents and rare manuscripts, attracting historians and researchers. The Rampur Raza Library is well known for its rare manuscript, Mughal document, and miniature painting collections.

Also read: Top 10 Digital Marketing Institutes in India

FAQs on Top 10 Libraries in India

1. National Library of India, Kolkata

FAQs:

What are the opening hours?
- The library is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends.
Can I access digital resources?
- Yes, the National Library offers a wide range of digital resources accessible online.
Is there a membership fee?
- Membership is free for Indian citizens, but certain services may require fees.

2. Delhi Public Library, Delhi

FAQs:

How do I become a member?
- You can become a member by filling out a form and providing necessary identification.
What services are available?
- Services include book lending, internet access, and special programs for children and seniors.
Are there any events held at the library?
- Yes, the library hosts various events such as book readings, educational workshops, and cultural programs.

3. Anna Centenary Library, Chennai

FAQs:

What are the library’s facilities?
- The library has a large reading hall, a children’s section, a Braille section, and internet facilities.
Is there a fee for using the library?
- Access to the library is free, but some services might incur a nominal fee.
Can I donate books to the library?
- Yes, the library accepts book donations.

4. State Central Library, Thiruvananthapuram

FAQs:

What is the collection size?
- The library has a collection of over 600,000 books and numerous periodicals.
Does the library offer online services?
- Yes, there is an online catalog and access to digital resources.
Are there study rooms available?
- Yes, the library provides study rooms for individual and group study.

5. Connemara Public Library, Chennai

FAQs:

Can tourists visit the library?
- Yes, tourists are welcome to visit and explore the library’s historic collections.
What are the membership options?
- The library offers various membership plans for students, adults, and researchers.
Does the library have special collections?
- Yes, the library has a rich collection of rare manuscripts and publications.

6. Rampur Raza Library, Rampur

FAQs:

What is the specialty of this library?
- The library is renowned for its collection of Indo-Islamic cultural heritage, manuscripts, and miniature paintings.
Can I access the manuscripts?
- Manuscripts can be accessed with prior permission and for research purposes only.
What are the visiting hours?
- The library is open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Saturday.

7. Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur

FAQs:

What is the historical significance of the library?
- It is one of the oldest libraries in Asia, known for its collection of palm leaf manuscripts.
Is there an entry fee?
- Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visitors.
Are guided tours available?
- Yes, the library offers guided tours for visitors to explore its collections.

8. Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library, Patna

FAQs:

What can I find in the library’s collection?
- The library houses rare Persian and Arabic manuscripts, and Mughal paintings.
Does the library provide research facilities?
- Yes, the library offers extensive research facilities and resources for scholars.
What are the library timings?
- The library is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

9. Asiatic Society Library, Mumbai

FAQs:

What type of collections does the library have?
- The library has a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and periodicals.
Can I borrow books from the library?
- Yes, members can borrow books. There are also reading rooms available.
Does the library host exhibitions?
- Yes, the library regularly hosts exhibitions and lectures.

10. David Sassoon Library, Mumbai

FAQs:

Is the library open to the public?
- Yes, it is open to the public, but membership is required for borrowing books.
What are the library’s opening hours?
- The library is open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekends.
Does the library offer any special programs?
- Yes, the library offers literary events, workshops, and children’s programs.