National Library Kolkata: In this computerized era, where e-books, audiobooks, and blogs have taken over, the question arises: will the next generations ever understand the words about a library; will they smell the roses of the books in the library or sit in silence listening to stories passed down over generations?
The library is more than a repository of books-it is a bastion of knowledge and culture. It is a peaceful place where one can read, learn about new topics, and examine the old literature. However, with the proliferation of digital libraries and availability through the internet, the relevance of a traditional library is gradually being diminished. Still, could anything other than physical resources give one the thrill of simply holding the book and reading?
Top Libraries in Kolkata
If you are in Kolkata and are a reading enthusiast, these top libraries in the city could be the ideal place for you.
1. British Council Library
This library offers great resources for both knowledge and entertainment. Apart from books, e-books, audiobooks, digital concerts, graphic novels and research papers are also available here.
- Address: L&T Chambers, First Floor, 16 Camac Street, Kolkata – 700017
- Timings: Monday to Saturday 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Sundays and public holidays)
- Membership Fee: ₹2,500 per year (individual) | ₹4,500 (family membership)
- Website: www.britishcouncil.in/library
- Contact: 0120-4569000 / 0120-6684353
2. Book My Read Library
This is an online library, where a collection of books has been specially prepared for small children. From here you can choose books online, which will be delivered to your home.
- Website: www.bookmyread.com
- Subscription fee: ₹600 to ₹1,600 per month
- Contact: 9831545630
3. Asiatic Society Library
It houses over 1.3 lakh books and 1.09 lakh journals. Though the library is not offering subscriptions at present, anyone can visit and read.
- Address: 1 Park Street, Taltala, Kolkata
- Timings: Monday to Friday 9:45 am to 6:15 pm
- Contact: 033-2229 0779
- Website: www.asiaticsocietykolkata.org
4. National Library
It is the largest library in Asia and the vast collection here can mesmerise any reader.
- Address: Belvedere Road, Alipore, Kolkata
- Timings: Monday to Friday 9 am to 8 pm
- Membership Fee: Free
- Website: www.nationallibrary.gov.in
5. Ramakrishna Mission Library (Golpark)
This library is divided into three sections—General Library, Children’s Library and Junior Library. It also has a multimedia section specifically for children.
- Address: Golpark, Gadiyahat Road, Kolkata
- Timings: Monday to Saturday 3:30 pm to 7 pm
- Membership Fee: ₹240 per year
- Website: www.sriramakrishna.org
6. American Library
This library has special material on topics related to American history, politics, international relations and business.
- Address: 38-A, American Center, J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkata
- Timings: Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm
- Membership fee: Starting from ₹400
- Website: in.usembassy.gov
Will the future of libraries be digital only?
Despite the growing influence of digital resources, the importance of traditional libraries cannot be diminished. The experience of touching books, turning pages and studying in an offline library is not possible on a digital screen.
However, libraries are also changing with the development of technology. The convenience of e-books and online databases has made studying and research easier, but using them also requires a structured space, and this is the job that traditional libraries do.
Conclusion
Libraries are not just a collection of books, but an important part of society. They provide knowledge as well as social and cultural awareness. Even if digital libraries expand in the future, the importance of traditional libraries will never end. We have to connect the coming generations to these, so that they too can enjoy the true world of books.
FAQs On National Library Kolkata
Q. Can digital libraries completely replace traditional libraries?
A. No, the experience and atmosphere of a traditional library cannot be achieved by a digital library.
Q. Is it beneficial for children to take library membership?
A. Yes, it helps them develop their reading habit and expands their knowledge.
Q. Are there free membership libraries available in Kolkata?
A. Yes, some libraries like National Library and Asiatic Society provide free service.