India's Top 10 Must-Visit Public Libraries.

Introduction

1. The National Library of India, Kolkata

Situated in Belvedere Estate, Alipore, Kolkata, the National Library of India is the country's most extensive library regarding volume and public records. This cultural treasure trove operates under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It is currently under the direction of Dr. Prof. Ajay Pratap Singh, who also serves as the Director General of the Raja Ram Mohan Roy Library Foundation, Kolkata. The National Library has a profound mission to gather, share, and safeguard printed materials originating within India. It boasts a collection of over 2.5 million books and records, making it the most extensive library in the nation. This iconic institution has a rich history that intertwines with the early days of British rule, initially serving as the residence of the Governor General of Bengal and India before later housing the Lt. Governor of Bengal when the Governor General and Viceroy relocated to the present Governor House.
Merging Libraries for a Grand Collection: The National Library is the product of the amalgamation of the public library with the Imperial Library and several government libraries. The Imperial Library, established in 1953, incorporated British and Indian titles and was accessible to the public. It is renowned for its vast collection of books, periodicals, and tags in nearly all Indian languages. The National Library's special collections span at least fifteen different languages. Among its treasures are texts dating back to the nineteenth century, including the earliest works printed in Hindi. The collection encompasses 86,000 maps and 3,200 manuscripts, underscoring its significance as a cultural and historical repository.

From Imperial to National Library: The Imperial Library emerged in 1891 by merging multiple Secretariat libraries in Calcutta, including the Home Department's library, which housed books previously owned by the library of East India College, Fort William, and the East India Board in London. However, access to this library was initially limited to high-ranking government officials. In 1910, Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee was appointed president of the Imperial Library Council, donating his collection of 80,000 books to create a dedicated section.
After India gained independence, the Imperial Library was renamed the National Library by the Imperial Library (Change of Name) Act 1948, and its collection was transferred to the present Belvedere Estate. On 1 February 1953, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad inaugurated the National Library, opening its doors to the public. The library's name was further changed to the National Library of India by the National Library of India Act 1976.

A Hidden Chamber and a Mystery: In 2010, during a restoration project by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), a concealed room within the library building was discovered. This ground-floor room, roughly 1000 sq. ft., had no apparent openings. ASI archaeologists attempted to search the first floor, which formed the room's ceiling, for a trap door, but their efforts proved fruitless. Due to the building's historical and cultural significance, ASI bore a hole through the wall instead of breaking it to access the hidden chamber. The purpose of this chamber remains a mystery, with speculations ranging from it being a punishment room used by British officials, such as Warren Hastings, to a potential storage area for treasure. In 2011, researchers announced that the room had been filled with mud, likely an effort to stabilise the building.

Access to Knowledge and Culture: The National Library on Belvedere Road in Alipore remains accessible to the public. It opens its doors between 9 am and 8 pm on working days and between 9.30 am and 6.00 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and Government of India holidays. It is closed on three national holidays: 26th January (Republic Day), 15th August (Independence Day), and 2nd October (Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday). The National Library of India is a testament to preserving and disseminating the nation's rich cultural heritage and knowledge.

2. Delhi Public Library


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Delhi Public Library, located in the Indian Union Territory of Delhi, has played a pivotal role in preserving and disseminating knowledge and culture. This national depository library with 37 branches across the state finds its roots in a pilot project initially sponsored by UNESCO and the Government of India. The library's inception dates back to 1944 when Shri Ramkrishna Dalmia generously donated a significant portion of the funds needed for constructing a library building at the behest of Gen. Sir Claude Auchinleck. This project took concrete shape in February 1950 when the Indian government and UNESCO collaborated to create what is now known as the Delhi Public Library. Its official inauguration occurred on 27 October 1951, with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru gracing the occasion. The Indian government took over the reins of the library from UNESCO in 1955. Right from its early days, the library has not only served as a repository of books but also as a training ground for aspiring librarians and social education workers.
Expansive Network: Today, the Delhi Public Library boasts a well-structured network. It comprises a Central Library, three Branch Libraries, 20 Sub-Branch Libraries, one Community Library, eight Resettlement Colony Libraries, a Braille Library, 100 Mobile Library Service Points (including 25 Braille Mobile library points), and 33 Deposit Stations. It operates across the Union Territory of Delhi and Delhi and NCR. The Delhi Public Library is also one of the four recipient libraries under the Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act of the Parliament of India, 1954 (as amended in 1956). This entitles the Delhi Public Library to receive one copy of every publication published in India from publishers, free of cost.

A Growing Cultural Hub: The Delhi Public Library has evolved far beyond its role as a book-lending centre. It is now a vibrant organisation dedicated to promoting intellectual endeavours and fostering community bonds among its readers. While issuing books and reading materials to its members remains a core service, the library has expanded its offerings to include various cultural and educational programs. As of 31 March 2021, the library serves 1,65,854 registered members. Books are typically loaned for a maximum of 14 days, with an option for renewal. Thanks to the Delhi Public Library's online catalogue, users can easily access its extensive collection. It is not just a library; it's a dynamic institution at the heart of the community's intellectual life, preserving and sharing the region's cultural heritage.
• Initiated as a UNESCO project in 1951 by the Government of India.
• It is the busiest Public Library in South Asia.

3. Saraswathi Mahal Library or Tanjore Maharaja Serfoji's Sarasvati Mahal Library, Tamil Nadu


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Saraswathi Mahal Library, commonly referred to as Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji's Saraswathi Mahal Library, is one of Asia's oldest and most remarkable libraries. Established during the 16th century by the Nayakar kings of Thanjavur, it is home to an invaluable collection of palm-leaf manuscripts and writings in Tamil, Sanskrit, and other indigenous Indian languages. Although the library houses over 49,000 volumes, only a fraction is available for public viewing. It boasts an extensive catalogue of its holdings, gradually making it accessible online.
Diverse History: Originally initiated by the Nayak Kings of Tanjavur to serve as a royal library for the intellectual enrichment of their family, the library was further nurtured by the Maratha rulers who took control of Thanjavur in 1675. Serfoji II (1798–1832) was notable among these Maratha Kings, a polymath well-versed in multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, and Latin. He played a pivotal role in expanding the library's collection by procuring works from prestigious Sanskrit learning centres in Northern India and other regions. In 1918, the library was made accessible to the public and is situated within the Tanjavur palace complex.

Preservation and Modernization: Saraswathi Mahal Library embraces technology to protect and share its rich collection. The library has installed computers for cataloguing and information retrieval. Plans for digitising manuscripts are also on the horizon. Security measures are in place to preserve the invaluable manuscripts, and efforts are made to publish rare manuscripts from the collection.

The Collection's Diversity: The library's impressive collection includes over 39,300 Tamil and Sanskrit manuscripts. These encompass literature and medical texts. In addition, there are 3,076 Marathi manuscripts reflecting South Indian Maharashtrian culture from the 17th to 19th centuries. Telugu manuscripts on palm leaf and paper number 846. Furthermore, the library houses 22 Persian and Urdu manuscripts, mainly from the 19th century. Unique medical records of Ayurvedic scholars, with patient case studies, are found in the Dhanvantari section.

Rare Treasures: The library is also home to an array of rare books and manuscripts. Notable items include Dr. Samuel Johnson's dictionary, the pictorial Bible printed in Amsterdam in 1791, Lavoisier's "Elements of Chemistry," and the notes of Bishop Heber on Raja Serfoji II. The library also holds ancient maps, town planning documents of Thanjavur, and various historical records.

Library Museum and Conservation: The library, designated as a 'Manuscript Conservation Centre' under the National Mission for Manuscripts, has endeavoured to microfilm and catalogue its contents. Though efforts were initiated in 1965 with the support of the Indian government, no substantial modernisation has occurred since then. Today, the library serves as a vital repository of knowledge and cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into India's past.

4. Anna Centenary Library, Chennai, Tamil Nadu


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The Anna Centenary Library (ACL), located in Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is named in honour of the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, C. N. Annadurai. This state library was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi, and it is a tribute to the visionary leader.
Infrastructure: Spread across 8 acres of land, this impressive library boasts a nine-floor building with a total area of 333,140 sq. ft. It has been designed to house 1.2 million books. It offers an integrated library management system with advanced features, including automated book issue and return, user smartcards, and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. It features an auditorium with a seating capacity of 1,280, an amphitheatre on the terrace, two conference halls, a dedicated children's section, and even facilities for the visually impaired. The premises have CCTV cameras for security, a power substation, ample parking space, and a food court that can accommodate 180 people.

Recognition and Controversy: The Anna Centenary Library received the prestigious LEED NC Gold rating from the Indian Green Building Council in July 2010, making it the first library building in Asia to achieve such recognition. While the library gained widespread acclaim, it also faced a controversial proposal to convert the building into a super-speciality pediatric hospital. This decision sparked outrage among educators, writers, and students who valued the library as a storehouse of knowledge. The controversy eventually led to legal action, halting the proposed changes.

Operations and Collections:The library hosts various specialised sections, including Braille for the visually impaired, an "own book reading" area for readers to bring their materials, a dedicated children's team, and a wealth of periodicals. The library's collection spans multiple languages, with extensive resources in both Tamil and English. The English book section covers diverse subjects across seven floors, providing a comprehensive knowledge repository. Beyond its vast collection, the library also offers a range of events and programs, such as the "Ponmalai Pozhudhu" literary event and orientations for competitive exam aspirants. The children's section organises various activities, including arts and crafts, chess, science experiments, and storytelling, fostering a rich learning environment.

The Anna Centenary Library symbolises Tamil Nadu's dedication to knowledge and culture and is a thriving centre for learning research, and community engagement.

5. Krishnadas Shama Central Library, Goa


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The Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library is a venerable institution and the primary library in Goa, India. It is situated in Panjim (Panaji) and boasts the distinction of being recognised as the first public library established in India in the early 1830s.
Oldest Public Library in India: The library's official website proudly proclaims it "the oldest Public Library in India." Its foundation was laid on September 15, 1832, by the Portuguese Viceroy of Goa, Dom Manuel de Portugal e Castro. Initially known as the Publica Livraria of the Academia Militar de Goa (Military Training Institute), the library underwent several transformations in its name and purpose.
In 1834, the Portuguese government ordered the transfer of book collections from various convents belonging to religious orders to the library, significantly augmenting its repository. 1836, the library was renamed Bibliotheca Pública and opened to the public. This was followed by several name changes, including Bibliotheca Publica da Nova Goa in 1870 and Bibliotheca National Vasco da Gama. By 1956, it received the Privilege of Deposited Legal, which entitled it to obtain copies of all publications from Portugal and her overseas colonies free of cost.

Post-Independence and Expansion: Following the end of Portuguese rule in Goa in 1961, the library was renamed the Central Library, marking a new phase in its history. Its activities expanded to include lending, reference, and special services for children. It began curating collections in English, Marathi, Hindi, Konkani, Bengali, and Urdu.
The library's local history and rare book collection became a repository for titles dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, manuscripts and imprints, books on the history and culture of Goa, including Indo-Portuguese history, bound volumes of local journals and newspapers, and books received under the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867.
Under the Government of India's Registration of Books Act, 1956, the Central Library became the copyright library of Goa, and every book published in Goa is required to send three copies to this library. The Central Library also compiles and publishes an annual bibliography of books published in Goa in the Official Gazette of Goa.

Present Day: Today, the Central Library stands as the apex public library of the state, overseeing seven taluka (sub-district) libraries and 121 government village libraries, panchayat libraries, and non-government organization-run libraries operating throughout Goa.
The library's vast collection comprises over 180,000 books in various languages since 1832. It also houses approximately 15,00,000 pages of rare books, official gazettes, and newspapers available in electronic format (microfilm form). It serves as a depository library under the Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867 and the Delivery of Books Act of 1954, which stipulates that every published book in the state must be deposited in the library for national posterity.
The library offers reference sources, including general and subject dictionaries, encyclopedias, Who's Who directories, biographical dictionaries, gazetteers, atlases, and travel guides. These resources are accessible to users, which include students, research scholars, and the general public.

Location and Facilities: The library was initially housed on the first floor of the Police Building in Panjim. However, in 2011, it relocated to its new, spacious premises near the main bus stand in the Pato locality of Panjim. Award-winning architect Gerard da Cunha designed the new building.
The library provides many facilities, including lending and reference services, a children's section, a braille section for visually challenged readers, an internet section, and a book preservation laboratory. The LIBSYS software for library automation streamlines book borrowing and return processes. Furthermore, the library engages in the preservation of historical newspapers and other important documents.

Membership: The library is open to the public, and everyone can use its facilities. Membership is required to borrow books for home use, which is attainable through a quick registration process. Membership categories and fees vary, making it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library is a testament to the preservation of knowledge, culture, and history in Goa, welcoming visitors and readers from all walks of life. It is pivotal in nurturing intellectual growth and promoting the love of reading and research.

6. Allahabad Public Library, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh


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The library in question, established in 1864, holds the distinction of being the most extensive library in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The library's historical significance is underscored by its association with the British Raj and its architectural marvel.
Historical Significance: The library's building, a stunning example of Scottish Baronial Revival architecture, was designed by Richard Roskell Bayne. It played a pivotal role during the British Raj, serving as the house of the legislative assembly when Allahabad was the capital of the United Provinces. In 1879, the Public library was relocated to its current location at Chandrashekhar Azad Park.

Library Holdings: The library boasts an extensive collection of approximately 125,000 books, 40 different types of magazines, and 28 newspapers in Hindi, English, Urdu, and Bangla. Additionally, it holds 21 Arabic manuscripts. The library's holdings go beyond contemporary publications, encompassing old government publications, parliamentary papers, and blue books from the 19th century. It is also home to ancient manuscripts and journals, making it a treasure trove of historical and literary resources.

The Thornhill Mayne Memorial Building: The library's architectural centrepiece, the Thornhill Mayne Memorial, is located within Alfred Park. This remarkable structure was designed by Richard Roskell Bayne, reflecting the Scottish Baronial architectural style characterised by sharp pillars and turrets constructed from granite and sandstone. The building is a stunning example of structural polychromy, with lofty towers and arcaded cloisters that add to its grandeur.
The Thornhill Mayne Memorial was completed in 1870, with a construction cost of approximately INR 94,222. The library's establishment was made possible through the funding of the Commissioner of Allahabad, Mr Mayne, and it was opened as a memorial in honour of Cuthbert Bensley Thornhill. This historic building stands as a cultural and architectural heritage symbol, inviting scholars and visitors to explore its wealth of knowledge and history.

7. Smt. Hansa Mehta Library, Baroda, Gujarat


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The Shrimati Hansa Mehta Library, the esteemed University Library of M. S. University of Baroda, has a rich history that began on May 1, 1950. Its inception coincided with the establishment of the M. S. University of Baroda, a significant educational institution in India. As part of the university's formation, a substantial collection of 25,000 books from two State Libraries, namely the Huzur Political Office and the Secretariat Library, was transferred to the University Library. This infusion of resources laid the foundation for the library's extensive holdings.
During this period, Baroda was home to several prominent colleges, including Baroda College for Arts, the Science Institute, Commerce College, and the Secondary Teacher's Training College, each of which maintained its library. These college libraries operated as Faculty Libraries, each under independent administration. On May 1, 1950, the University Library System was formally established. It found its initial home in the central block of the Old Residency Office Building, becoming the nucleus of academic and intellectual resources for the university community.
In a momentous event, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who served as the President of India, laid the foundation stone of Smt. Hansa Mehta Library of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda on November 16, 1954. This symbolic act marked the library's official dedication. It honoured the legacy of Shrimati Hansa Mehta, a prominent figure in the field of education and a testament to the university's commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and scholarship. The library continues to be a beacon of learning, serving the university and its community in their quest for academic excellence and intellectual growth. - Encompasses a total built-up area of 80,025 sq. ft.

8. Connemara Public Library, Chennai, Tamil Nadu


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The Connemara Public Library, nestled in the heart of Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, is a distinguished institution with a profound literary heritage. It is honoured to be one of the four National Depository Libraries in India, entrusted with receiving copies of all books, newspapers, and periodicals published there. Established in 1896, this library is a treasure trove of publications spanning over a century, housing some of India's most revered works and collections. Remarkably, it also serves as a depository library for the United Nations. This institution is found within the Government Museum Complex on Pantheon Road in Egmore, which also hosts the Government Museum and the National Art Gallery.
History: The roots of the Connemara Public Library can be traced back to 1860 when Captain Jesse Mitchell established a small library as part of the Madras Museum in the capital of the Madras Presidency during the British Indian Empire. This initial collection was significantly boosted when hundreds of surplus books from Haileybury College, where Indian Civil Service civil servants were trained in Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire, were sent to the Madras Government. These books were subsequently handed over to the Madras Museum. Inspired by the British Museum Library, the library remained a part of the Madras Museum until 1890, when the need for a free public library led Lord Connemara, the Governor of Madras at the time, to lay the foundation for a new library on March 22, 1890. It officially opened its doors to the public in 1896 and was named after Lord Connemara, an Anglo-Irish nobleman who had served as the Governor. The library was notable for being essentially free, with only a small deposit required, which was refundable. 1948, the library received state central status by enacting the Madras Public Libraries Act of 1948. This act marked India's first concerted effort to institutionalise, structure, coordinate, and organise public library services. The Connemara Public Library is proudly one of Asia's largest libraries.
The library was established as part of a cultural complex that grew within the grounds of what was once called The Pantheon. The complex now features an array of buildings, reflecting architectural unity while showcasing various stages of Indo-Saracenic development, from Gothic-neo-Byzantine to Rajput Mughal and Southern Hindu Deccani styles.
In 1973, a new building was added to the library, expanding its offerings. This new structure houses a vast collection of books, a sought-after textbook section, a periodicals hall, a reference room, a video room, a dedicated floor for texts in various Indian languages, a Braille Library, and an IAS study centre. Ongoing efforts are focused on fully computerising the library's database to facilitate easy access to its extensive collection, which includes over 600,000 books. In 1981, the library earned recognition as one of the four national depository libraries, as mandated by the central government. However, it's important to note that the library is not a registered member of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).

Collections: The Connemara Public Library, in conjunction with the Madras Museum, has been enriched by the contributions of the Madras Literary Society, the Oriental Manuscripts Library, and the Records Office. Per the Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act of 1954, every publisher in India must send a copy of each publication to the library. In addition, the library receives many magazines and periodicals from the United Nations and its specialised agencies, as well as from the Asian Development Bank. Furthermore, the state government's budget allocates funds for the annual acquisition of several books. The library's collection is replete with rare books, including a Bible dating back to 1608, making it a haven for scholars and bibliophiles. It is a testament to India's commitment to preserving its literary heritage and promoting knowledge dissemination.

9. State Central Library, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala


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The State Central Library of Kerala, also known as the Trivandrum Public Library, stands as a significant cultural and educational landmark at the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Established in 1829 during the reign of King Swathi Thirunal of Travancore, the library has a rich history that has evolved over the years to cater to the diverse literary needs of the community.
Historical Highlights: • In its early days, the library's initiation and organisation were entrusted to Colonel Edward Cadogan, the British Resident at the time and the grandson of Sir Hans Sloane, the founder of the British Museum. Colonel Cadogan served as the first president of the Trivandrum Public Library committee, responsible for its management. Initially, only a privileged class, those invited to the Durbar of His Highness the Maharaja, were granted admission, and the library was known as the "Trivandrum People’s Library".
• In 1898, the assets of the Trivandrum People's Library were transferred to the administrative control of the government, opening its doors to the public.
• The present library building, an architectural marvel of Gothic architecture, was constructed in 1900 by His Highness Sree Moolam Thirunal to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
• In 1938, the administration of the Trivandrum Public Library was handed over to the University of Travancore (now the University of Kerala).
• In 1948, a resolution of the State Legislature directed the State Government to take over the library's administration from the university.
• The library was officially declared the 'State Central Library' of Kerala in 1958.
• In 1988, the library was granted the status of a minor department under the administrative control of the Higher Education Department of the Government of Kerala.
• Notable additions to the library include a new Heritage Model building constructed in 2005 to house the Children's Library and the introduction of online reservation and RF ID facilities in 2007.

Library Sections:
The State Central Library is divided into several sections, each catering to specific literary needs and interests:
• Technical Section
• Circulation Section (Books & Periodicals)
• English Section
• Malayalam Section
• Hindi / Sanskrit Section
• Reference Section
• Children's Section
• Binding Section
• Reprographic Section
• Closed Reference Section
• Member's Reading Room (For A & B Members only)
• General Reading Room (For C & D Members & Non-Members)
• Cash Section
• Library Office
• Internet Browsing Centre
• Kerala Gazette Section
• Multimedia Section
• Digital Library
• British Library Collection

Digital Resources: The library has embraced the digital age with a collection of 709 searchable books in English and Malayalam, providing patrons with access to a wealth of knowledge and information. Additionally, there is a dedicated digital library catering to the changing needs of its users. Children's Library: A New Heritage Model building within the library's campus is devoted to the Children's Library, creating a welcoming and engaging space for young readers. This area also houses a multimedia section.

Library Science Certification Course: The library also offers a certification course in Library and Information Science, further contributing to the development of librarians and information professionals.

The State Central Library of Kerala, or the Trivandrum Public Library, remains a hub of knowledge and culture, serving as a valuable resource for the people of Kerala and beyond.

10. State Central Library, Hyderabad


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The State Central Library in Hyderabad, known as the State Central Library (SCL), previously referred to as the Asafia Library, is a remarkable institution in the vibrant city of Hyderabad, Telangana. The library's architectural grandeur dates back to its construction in 1891, and it has since been acknowledged as one of the city's most iconic structures. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the library was designated as a heritage site in 1998 by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Hyderabad.
Situated along the serene banks of the River Musi in the Afzal Gunj area, this distinguished institution is home to an extensive collection of literary treasures. The library boasts an impressive assemblage of 500,000 books and magazines, including a valuable assortment of rare Palm-leaf manuscripts. As the apex of the state's library system, the State Central Library plays a vital role in preserving and disseminating knowledge to the citizens of Telangana and beyond.
History:The State Central Library's rich history can be traced back to 1891, when it was founded, thanks to the tireless efforts of Syed Hussain Bilgrami. His library formed the initial nucleus of this remarkable institution. The library's grand edifice, covering an area of 72,247 square yards, was designed under the watchful eye of the architect Aziz Ali. Construction commenced in January 1932 under the patronage of Prince Mir Osman Ali Khan, and in 1936, the Asafia Library relocated to this new building to commemorate Nizam VII's Silver Jubilee.
In 1941, the Asafia State Library celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking a significant milestone in its journey. With the enactment of the Hyderabad Public Libraries Act in 1955, the Asafia State Library was officially declared the State Central Library for the Hyderabad State.

Collection: The library's impressive collection encompasses approximately half a million books published since the early 19th century. Among its prized possessions is the "Hyderabad Samachara," a monthly newspaper published by HEH Mir Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII, in 1941.

Digitalisation: The State Central Library initiated a digitalisation project to keep pace with the digital age. The first phase involved computerising and networking libraries using the e-Grandhalaya software developed by the National Informatics Centre. Initially implemented in Warangal and Hyderabad, this project has digitised over 40,000 books. The invaluable digitised works include Hindi, English, Telugu, Urdu, and Persian titles. This ambitious project has been made possible with the generous funding provided by Carnegie Mellon University through its Universal Online Library Projects.

Restoration:Recognising the need for preservation and renovation, the State Central Library embarked on a restoration project with an estimated cost of ₹7.35 crores. The restoration work is expected to be completed in 18 months and will create a digital portal. This portal will offer access to around 45,550 rare books, encompassing diverse languages such as Urdu, Persian, Arabic, and English. It is a significant step toward preserving these invaluable literary treasures and ensuring their accessibility to future generations.
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