Ideas are built with the power of learning

National Library is located in the old, lush neighbourhood of Alipore, Kolkata. It started with the formation of Calcutta Public Library on 21st March 1836 and is a treasure trove of permanent archives of books, newspapers, and periodicals published in India. You will find every publication that has been released in the territory of India under the provisions of “the Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act, 1954”. The Act was revised so that the library could legally accommodate more periodicals, publications, newspapers, and maps within its purview.

You can find rows and lines of books in the National Library. But if you are in search of material for reference and bibliographic services, you can easily borrow it with a small charge as a security deposit. Apart from being a reservoir of information, this library also acts as a place to avail internship programs for the Young Post Graduates and Information Science. 

The National Library is not like every other library that’s found in nooks and corners of the country. It has strokes of cultural heritage, intellectual richness, and architectural grandeur all blended to create a rich tapestry. It is hailed as one of the largest libraries in India, which is not just a reading nook but a journey through the country's literary and historical tapestry. The collection of printed materials, manuscripts, and official documents gives an in-depth knowledge of India's diverse heritage, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and scholars alike. Moreover, the National Library's strategic location in Kolkata, a city renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and colonial-era landmarks, enhances the visitor experience.

It would be wrong to define The National Library as just a repository of knowledge. It has a range of services and activities catered to tourists. You can delve into guided tours and exhibitions to cultural events and educational programs, the options are plenty and varied.  Honestly, reading in the peace around is a welcome retreat from bustling city life, making it an ideal destination for leisurely exploration and contemplation. Whether delving into India's literary legacy or simply seeking a tranquil oasis amidst Kolkata's urban bustle, the National Library offers a unique and enriching experience for tourists eager to delve deeper into the cultural heart of the city.

Walking through the pages of history

The story of the library goes back to 1836. It was conceived to help people study and lend reading and referencing material irrespective of their background. Years later it was merged with the Imperial Secretariat Library in 1902, forming The Imperial Library. Post-Independence, it transformed into the National Library through the "Imperial Library (Change of Name) Act" in 1948. It was opened to the people of the country in 1953 and was also hailed as an organization of National Importance. The Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act, 1954 authorizes the library to preserve India's published works. The National Library has been standing proud for the last two centuries and is considered the guiding light for knowledge and cultural heritage. 

It has remained steadfast in collecting, preserving, and even acquiring all significant printed materials originating within the country. The detailed curation has been almost a work of art. The institution has also extended its vision and has been collecting printed materials relevant to India from global sources and acquiring photographic records unavailable domestically. The library plays a crucial role in safeguarding manuscripts of national importance and strategically plans the acquisition of foreign materials vital to the nation's interests. It is not just a place for exchanging reading and loaning reading materials, but also fostering global collaboration and enriching scholarly discourse. 

Timings

Opening time - 09:30 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Looking up from the pages

Around the National Library in Kolkata lies a canvas of attractions, each weaving its own story into the cultural fabric of the city. The iconic Victoria Memorial stands proud with its rich history and exquisite architecture, while the sprawling expanse of Maidan invites you into its embrace with verdant greenery, and the vibrant Park Street offers diverse culinary and entertainment delights. New Market and College Street have vibrant energy and eclectic items, forming a mosaic of experiences inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Kolkata's rich tapestry of culture, history, and vibrant urban life.