List of largest libraries in India | IBPS PO Prelims & Mains Preparation - Bank Exams PDF Download

Overview

• India is a country rich in cultural heritage and knowledge.
• It is home to many libraries that act as collections of wisdom, history, and innovation.
• The largest library in India is the National Library, which shows the country's dedication to keeping knowledge safe.
• For over a century, the National Library has built up a huge collection of books, manuscripts, and documents.
• This makes the National Library an important treasure of intellectual resources.

Largest Library in India

A Historic Landmark:

• The National Library has a rich history that dates back to 1903 when it was initially established as the Imperial Library. Over the years, it transformed into the National Library, committed to preserving India’s literary heritage.

Architectural Grandeur:

• In addition to its vast collection, the library's stunning architecture is worth admiring. The building features a majestic marble structure, exemplifying neoclassical design.

Second Largest Library - Anna Centenary Library, Chennai 

This library is a modern symbol of India’s dedication to knowledge and learning in the 21st century. 

• Extensive Collection: The library boasts a vast collection of books and digital resources spread across its nine floors. This includes a wide range of academic books, research papers, and multimedia materials. 
• Digital Innovation: What makes the Anna Centenary Library stand out is its focus on digital resources. It offers state-of-the-art digital facilities and a large collection of e-books, catering to the needs of the tech-savvy population. 
• Educational Hub: Beyond being a storage space for books, the library serves as a vibrant educational and cultural hub. It hosts various events such as lectures, workshops, and exhibitions, fostering intellectual exchange and community engagement. 

Most Visited Library in India

The Raza Library in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, holds the title of the most visited library in India. While it may not have the largest collection, its cultural significance and unique materials make it a favorite among many.

A Historical Gem:

• Established in 1774, the Raza Library is renowned for its extraordinary collection of rare manuscripts in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu.
• The library serves as both a research center and a cultural haven for those passionate about arts, history, and literature.

Cultural Heritage:

• The Raza Library is a repository of Mughal and Persian art, providing a fascinating insight into India's rich cultural heritage.

Rare Manuscripts:

• Its collection of rare manuscripts and paintings is unmatched, making the library an essential destination for scholars and art lovers.

Top 10 Largest Libraries in India 

 Libraries are a treasure trove of knowledge, offering vast collections of books, manuscripts, and other resources. In India, several libraries stand out due to their size and specialization. Here’s a look at the top 10 largest libraries in India, listed by their collection size. 

1. National Library, KolkataLocation: Kolkata, West Bengal Collection Size: 2.2 million books Specialization: General knowledge and history 
2. Anna Centenary Library, ChennaiLocation: Chennai, Tamil Nadu Collection Size: 1.2 million books Specialization: Academic and digital resources 
3. Delhi Public Library, DelhiLocation: Delhi, Delhi Collection Size: 800,000 books Specialization: General knowledge and cultural resources 
4. Raza Library, RampurLocation: Rampur, Uttar Pradesh Collection Size: 500,000 manuscripts Specialization: Arabic, Persian, and Urdu manuscripts 
5. Asiatic Society Library, MumbaiLocation: Mumbai, Maharashtra Collection Size: 250,000 books Specialization: History, archaeology, and Indology 
6. Connemaara Public Library, ChennaiLocation: Chennai, Tamil Nadu Collection Size: 600,000 books Specialization: General knowledge and local history 
7. Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library, PatnaLocation: Patna, Bihar Collection Size: 21,000 manuscripts Specialization: Persian and Arabic manuscripts 
8. Salar Jung Museum Library, HyderabadLocation: Hyderabad, Telangana Collection Size: 50,000 books Specialization: Art, history, and cultural heritage 
9. State Central Library, BangaloreLocation: Bangalore, Karnataka Collection Size: 400,000 books Specialization: Kannada literature and culture 
10. Saraswathi Mahal Library, ThanjavurLocation: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu Collection Size: 49,000 manuscripts Specialization: Tamil literature and heritage 

These libraries are not just repositories of books; they are vital centers of learning and culture, each with its own unique focus and resources. Whether you're looking for academic materials, cultural insights, or historical documents, these libraries offer a wealth of information to explore.