11 Libraries in India That are a Reader’s Paradise

Aakriti Upadhyay

Sarasvathi Mahal Library

Located in Tanjore, this is one of Asia’s oldest libraries, home to 60,000 volumes, rare-palm leaf manuscripts, and ancient parchment, once serving as the royal library for the Nayak Kings.

Connemara Public Library

The Connemara Public Library in Chennai, with 7,70,000 books and rare collections, including UN publications, is a key national depository and a treasure trove of knowledge.

State Central Library of Hyderabad

Built in 1891 with palace-like-architecture, The State Central Library in Telangana houses 5,00,000 books, rare palm-leaf manuscripts, and unique Arabian, Persian, and Urdu texts.

David Sassoon Library

With its yellow Malad stone architecture and serene garden, this library in central Mumbai is one of the oldest libraries, rich in history and heritage.

Seshadri Memorial Library

Founded in 1915, this library in Bangalore with over 3,00,000 books and a Braille section, is renowned for its stunning architecture and attracts 400-500 visitors daily.

Allahabad Public Library

Known as the largest library in Uttar Pradesh, the Allahabad Public Library features stunning Scottish Baronial architecture and holds 1,25,000 books, rare Arabic manuscripts and more.

Trivandrum Public Library

Established in 1829, the Trivandrum Public Library combines a rich collection of Malayalam literature with classic heritage architecture, including a dedicated children’s section.

Asiatic Society of Mumbai Library

Nestled in Mumbai’s historic town hall, this library boasts over 2,00,000 books, rare artefacts, and Sopara relics, making it a must-visit for history and literature lovers.

Raza Library

A gem of history and architecture, this library preserves 17,000 rare manuscripts, 5,000 miniature paintings, and 30,000 books within its palatial grandeur.

The National Library of India

Being India’s largest library, this library in Kolkata holds over 2.2 million books, 86,000 maps, and a rich history in its iconic former Viceregal Lodge.

Nehru Memorial Museum And Library

Housed in a historic 1930’s building, this museum-cum-library, once Nehru’s residence, preserves archives of India’s independence movement, rare writings, and a vast social sciences collection.

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