TYPES OF LIBRARIES

Libraries act as gateways to knowledge, promoting intellectual development and offering a wide
array of resources. Understanding the different types of libraries is crucial for appreciating their
unique roles in society and the diverse ways they cater to information needs. Among the different
types of libraries, each serves a unique purpose and has a distinct scope. Public libraries are
community learning centers, providing a wide range of books, multimedia materials, and programs to
suit the needs and interests of their users. In contrast, academic libraries support the academic pursuits
of students and faculty by maintaining extensive research collections and offering quiet study areas.
Special libraries, with their focused collections, support specific industries, organizations, or
professions. Whether in the majestic spaces of national libraries or the digital environments of virtual
libraries, these varied institutions share a common goal: preserving knowledge, enhancing literacy,
and granting individuals access to information. According to the mode of services rendered to the
readers, libraries are broadly divided into four types.
 Academic Library
 Public Library
 Special Library
 National Library

The academic libraries comprise school libraries, college libraries, and university
libraries. The Performance of each type of library is important in promoting the objectives of
their parent organisations to which they are attached.

Academic Libraries

An academic library is a vital part of an educational institution, serving as a resource hub to

support teaching, learning, and research. It provides access to a wide range of information
resources, including books, journals, digital media, and databases, aligned with the
institution's curriculum and research goals. Academic libraries cater to students, faculty, and
researchers, offering a conducive environment for intellectual growth, critical thinking, and
scholarly activities. These libraries play a crucial role in promoting information literacy and
lifelong learning, making them integral to the academic community.

Definition of Academic Library

American Library Association (ALA)

"An academic library is a library that is integral to the educational mission of a higher
education institution, providing services, resources, and spaces to support the academic and
research needs of its students and faculty."

S.R. Ranganathan (Father of Library Science in India)

"An academic library is a learning and research hub that collects, organizes, preserves, and
disseminates information to support the goals of the parent institution."

Objectives of Academic Libraries

Academic libraries have several key objectives that guide their operations:
1. Support Curriculum and Learning: One of the primary objectives is to provide
resources that align with the academic programs offered by the institution. This
 includes textbooks, reference materials, and multimedia resources that support
students and faculty in their teaching and learning activities.
2. Facilitate Research and Innovation: The International Federation of Library
Associations and Institutions (IFLA) defines this objective as providing access to
"the world's scholarly literature and facilitating the work of scholars and researchers."
3. Preserve and Disseminate Knowledge: Libraries collect, organize, and preserve
academic resources, including books, journals, theses, and institutional publications.
This ensures that knowledge is accessible for future generations.
4. Develop Information Literacy: Libraries provide training to help users effectively
locate, evaluate, and use information resources. This includes workshops,
orientations, and one-on-one support.
5. Promote Lifelong Learning: Academic libraries encourage self-directed learning by
offering diverse resources and technologies that cater to individual interests and
professional development.
6. Resource Sharing and Collaboration: They collaborate with other libraries and
institutions for interlibrary loans, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange.
7. Provide Access to Technology and Digital Resources: Libraries facilitate access to
digital tools, eBooks, online journals, and multimedia resources to enhance academic
experiences.

Collections of Academic Libraries

Academic libraries house a diverse range of collections to support the educational and
research activities of their users. These collections are carefully curated to meet the needs of
students, faculty, and researchers. Key types of collections include:
1. Textbooks and Reference Books: Core textbooks for courses and reference materials
such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks that provide foundational
knowledge.
2. Journals and Periodicals: Print and electronic journals, magazines, and periodicals
keep users updated on current research and developments in various fields.
3. Research and Scholarly Materials: Theses, dissertations, and scholarly papers
produced by students and faculty of the institution.
4. Electronic Resources: E-books, e-journals, databases, and digital archives provide
access to a wide range of academic materials.
5. Special Collections: Rare books, manuscripts, and unique materials of historical or
cultural significance.
6. Multimedia Resources: CDs, DVDs, videos, and other audio-visual materials to
support diverse learning styles.
7. Government Publications: Official reports, statistics, and policy documents relevant
to research and academics.
 8. Open Access Resources: Free and accessible materials, including eBooks, journals,
and research repositories, to ensure wider access to knowledge.
Services of Academic Libraries
Academic libraries offer a variety of services to support the teaching, learning, and research
activities of their users. These services are designed to enhance the academic experience and
ensure efficient access to information. Key services include:
1. Circulation Services: Lending books, journals, and other materials to users,
managing renewals, reservations, and returns of library materials.
2. Reference Services: Assisting users in finding and using library resources effectively,
providing guidance on locating specific information or research materials.
3. Access to Digital Resources: Offering access to eBooks, eJournals, databases, and
online academic content, and supporting remote access to digital collections through
library portals.
4. Information Literacy Programs: Teaching users how to search, evaluate, and use
information resources effectively through workshops, orientations, and training
sessions. According to the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL),
information literacy is "the set of skills needed to find, retrieve, analyze, and use
information."
5. Research Support: Assisting researchers with literature searches, citation
management, and accessing specialized resources. Providing tools and platforms for
managing research data and publishing.
6. Interlibrary Loan and Resource Sharing: Facilitating access to materials not
available within the library through partnerships with other libraries.
7. Study and Collaborative Spaces: Offering quiet study areas, group discussion
rooms, and multimedia facilities for academic work.
8. Technology Services: Providing access to computers, printers, scanners, and internet
facilities. Supporting software tools for academic and research activities.
Users of Academic Libraries
Academic libraries serve a diverse group of users associated with educational institutions.
Each group has unique needs and purposes for using library resources. The primary users
include:
1. Students: Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research scholars use the library for
textbooks, course materials, research journals, and study spaces to support their
academic requirements.
2. Faculty Members: Faculty members use the library for teaching resources, research
materials, and staying updated with the latest developments in their disciplines. They
also rely on library services for curriculum development and publishing research
papers.
3. Administrative Staff: Academic and administrative staff may use the library for
professional development, training resources, and institutional research needs.
 4. Visiting Scholars and Researchers: Scholars and researchers from outside the
institution may access the library for specialized collections, archives, and research
materials.
5. Alumni: Some academic libraries offer extended access to alumni, providing
resources for lifelong learning and professional development.
6. Specialized Users: Individuals or groups involved in specific projects or collaborative
research with the institution may use library resources.
Role of Academic Libraries
Academic libraries play a critical role in fostering academic excellence by providing user-
focused services that meet the evolving needs of their communities. They ensure efficient
access to information and enhance the academic experience. Key roles include:
1. Access to Collections: Providing access to physical materials such as books, journals,
theses, maps, and multimedia resources, as well as digital resources like e-books,
academic journals, research databases, and institutional repositories.
2. Research Assistance: Offering personalized research consultations with librarians,
helping users locate, evaluate, and cite information sources, and guiding them in using
specialized databases and tools.
3. Information Literacy Training: Conducting workshops and classes on effective
research strategies, plagiarism prevention, proper citation practices, and using library
tools and technology.
4. Interlibrary Loan (ILL) and Document Delivery: Allowing users to borrow
resources not available in the library from other institutions and delivering digital
copies of journal articles or book chapters.
5. Course Reserves: Providing students with access to high-demand textbooks and other
course-related materials.
6. Study Spaces: Offering quiet areas for individual study and group discussion rooms,
as well as technology-enabled spaces for multimedia projects or presentations.
7. Technology and Equipment Lending: Providing access to computers, printers,
scanners, high-speed internet, and lending devices like laptops, tablets, projectors, or
calculators.
School Library
A school library is a dedicated space within a school that provides students, teachers, and
staff with access to books, educational resources, and digital materials to support learning and
teaching. It serves as a hub for fostering reading habits, developing research skills, and
encouraging lifelong learning. School libraries offer a variety of resources, including
textbooks, fiction and non-fiction books, reference materials, and multimedia content. They
also provide quiet study areas, collaborative spaces, and guidance on information literacy. By
supporting the curriculum and promoting a culture of knowledge and inquiry, school libraries
play a vital role in the academic and personal growth of students.
A school library should offer some of these services to its clientele:
 Lending
 Information and reference services
 Guidance and advisory services
 Preparation of reading lists both on an anticipatory and responsive basis
 Service on current events, activities, personalities, etc. and
 Other routine services.
College Library
A college library is an essential resource center within a college, providing
students, faculty, and staff with access to a wide range of academic materials and services to
support education, research, and personal development. It houses a collection of textbooks,
reference books, journals, e-resources, and multimedia materials aligned with the college's
curriculum and research needs. College libraries also offer access to digital platforms,
databases, and online journals, facilitating advanced learning and research. In addition to
providing study spaces and quiet areas for individual learning, college libraries often include
collaborative zones for group discussions and projects. They play a crucial role in fostering
information literacy by offering workshops and guidance on effectively using library
resources. By bridging the gap between knowledge seekers and resources, college libraries
contribute significantly to academic excellence and lifelong learning among students and
faculty.
The important services to be provided by a college library comprise the following:
 Text book Services
 Lending and inter library loan service
 Reading room services
 Information and reference services
 Current awareness services
 Documentation services on a specific request
 Display of current journals and new acquisitions to the library
 Assistance in the use of the library
 Internet access services, including wi-fi
 E resources services
 Audio-visual services and
 Reprographic facilities.
University Library
A university library is a comprehensive resource hub that serves as the backbone of academic and
research activities within a university. It provides access to an extensive collection of books, academic
journals, research papers, digital databases, and multimedia resources, catering to the diverse needs of
undergraduate and postgraduate students, faculty, and researchers. University libraries are designed to
support advanced learning, scholarly research, and knowledge dissemination. They offer specialized
services such as access to rare and archival materials, interlibrary loans, and personalized research
assistance. Equipped with modern technology, these libraries provide access to eBooks, online
journals, and databases, facilitating remote learning and research. In addition to offering quiet study
areas, university libraries often include spaces for group discussions, workshops, and collaborative
projects. By fostering a culture of academic inquiry and innovation, university libraries play a pivotal
role in promoting intellectual growth, supporting academic programs, and contributing to research
advancements.
Important Services Provided by a University Library
University libraries play a crucial role in supporting academic and research activities by
offering a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of students, faculty, and
researchers. The key services include:
1. Lending and Circulation Services
 Issuing, renewing, and returning books, journals, and other resources.
 Managing interlibrary loans for materials not available in the library.
2. Reference and Information Services
 Assisting users in locating and using resources effectively.
  Providing guidance for research and answering specific academic queries.
3. Access to Digital Resources
 Offering eBooks, eJournals, and databases for research and study.
 Providing remote access to online resources through library portals.
4. Research Support Services
 Assisting with literature reviews, citation management, and research
methodologies.
 Offering tools and platforms for managing research data and accessing
scholarly content.
5. Information Literacy Programs
 Conducting workshops and training sessions to teach users how to find,
evaluate, and use information effectively.
6. Current Awareness Services (CAS)
 Keeping users updated on new publications, research trends, and
developments in their fields.
7. Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI)
 Delivering personalized updates based on the specific research interests of
users.
8. Special Collections and Archival Access
 Providing access to rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials for
advanced research.
9. Study and Collaborative Spaces
 Offering quiet areas for individual study and group spaces for
collaborative work.
10. Technology and Multimedia Services
 Providing access to computers, printing, scanning, and internet facilities.
 Offering multimedia tools and resources for academic and creative
projects.
11. Interlibrary Loan and Resource Sharing
 Facilitating access to resources from other libraries through partnerships
and collaborations.
12. Thesis and Dissertation Access
 Collecting, preserving, and providing access to students’ and faculty
members’ academic works.
13. Cultural and Academic Programs
 Hosting workshops, seminars, and exhibitions to promote academic
engagement and cultural awareness.
By offering these services, university libraries not only support education and
research but also foster innovation, collaboration, and intellectual growth within the
academic community.

National Library
Definition:
National libraries are central libraries established by a government to serve as the primary repository
of the nation's literature and cultural heritage. These libraries play a critical role in preserving and
providing access to a comprehensive collection of published works within the country.

History of National Library System

The concept of national libraries can be traced back to the Renaissance period in Europe, with the
establishment of large royal and academic libraries. One of the earliest examples is the Bibliothèque
Nationale de France, founded in 1368. Over the centuries, the idea of a national library evolved,
becoming more formalized and widespread.
In India, the history of national libraries dates back to the establishment of the Calcutta Public Library
in 1836. Later, the collection was merged with the Imperial Library, established by Lord Curzon in
1903. After India's independence, the library was renamed the National Library of India in 1953,
marking a significant milestone in its evolution.

Characteristics of National Libraries

1. Comprehensive Collections: National libraries house extensive collections of books,
periodicals, manuscripts, maps, and other materials, representing the nation's intellectual and
cultural output.
2. Legal Deposit Libraries: They serve as legal deposit libraries, where publishers are required
by law to submit copies of their publications.
3. Multilingual Resources: These libraries often contain materials in multiple languages,
reflecting the linguistic diversity of the nation.
4. Research and Reference Services: National libraries offer extensive research and reference
services to support scholars, researchers, and the general public.
5. Special Collections: They preserve rare and valuable materials, such as historical documents,
manuscripts, and archives.
Objectives of National Libraries
1. Preservation: To collect, preserve, and safeguard the nation's literary and cultural heritage for
future generations.
2. Accessibility: To provide easy access to a wide range of resources, both physical and digital,
for users.
3. Bibliographic Control: To compile and publish a national bibliography, listing all
publications produced in the country.
4. Promotion of Knowledge: To promote reading, research, and lifelong learning among the
public.
5. Cultural Promotion: To support and promote the nation's culture, language, and history
through various programs and exhibitions.
6. International Cooperation: To participate in international library networks and contribute to
global knowledge sharing and cultural exchange.
Functions of National Libraries
1. Collection Development: Acquiring and cataloging books, periodicals, manuscripts, and
digital resources to build a comprehensive collection.
2. Legal Deposit Implementation: Managing the legal deposit system to ensure publishers
submit copies of their works, maintaining a complete record of the nation's publications.
3. Reference Services: Providing assistance to users in locating and utilizing resources,
including digital databases and specialized research support.
4. Digitization: Digitizing rare and fragile materials to preserve them and make them accessible
online, ensuring their longevity and wider accessibility.
 5. Exhibitions and Programs: Organizing exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events to engage
the public and promote knowledge and cultural heritage.
6. International Collaboration: Engaging in international cooperation with other national
libraries and institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange and cultural collaboration.
Conclusion
National libraries are invaluable institutions dedicated to preserving and promoting a nation's
intellectual and cultural heritage. With their comprehensive collections, specialized services, and
commitment to accessibility and preservation, they play a vital role in supporting research, education,
and cultural promotion. As they adapt to the digital age, national libraries continue to serve as
essential resources for scholars, researchers, and the general public.
Reference
 Maurice Line, "National Libraries," UNESCO Publications, 0, 1990.

The Indian National Library: An Overview

Introduction
The National Library of India, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, is the largest library in the country
and a pivotal institution in preserving India's literary and cultural heritage. As a repository of
knowledge, it serves researchers, scholars, and the general public, offering an extensive collection of
resources. This essay delves into its history, characteristics, objectives, and functions.
History
The origins of the National Library of India can be traced back to the 19th century. Initially
established as the Calcutta Public Library in 1836, it was a non-governmental institution where
citizens could borrow books by paying a subscription fee. In 1903, the library's collection was
combined with the Imperial Library, established by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India. The
library was intended to serve as a repository of all materials produced in British India. In 1953,
following India's independence, the Imperial Library was renamed the National Library, and it was
opened to the public. This transition marked a significant step in making knowledge accessible to a
wider audience.
Characteristics
The National Library of India boasts several distinctive characteristics:
1. Largest Collection: With over 2.5 million books and records, it houses the most extensive
collection in India.
2. Multilingual Resources: The library contains materials in 15 Indian languages and several
foreign languages, catering to a diverse readership.
3. Specialized Collections: It includes rare manuscripts, historical documents, maps,
newspapers, and digital resources.
 4. Legal Deposit Library: As a legal deposit library, it receives copies of all publications
produced in India, ensuring a comprehensive collection.
5. Research and Reference Services: The library offers extensive reference and research
services, supporting academic and scholarly work.
6. Diverse Collection: The library's collection includes books, journals, newspapers, magazines,
sound and music recordings, patents, databases, maps, stamps, prints, drawings, and
manuscripts.
7. Multilingual Resources: The library houses materials in 15 Indian languages and several
foreign languages, including Arabic, Persian, East Asian languages, Germanic languages, and
Slavonic languages.
8. Public Access: Open to the public, it provides comprehensive reference and research services
to scholars, researchers, and the general public
9. Cultural Promotion: The library promotes national culture, language, and history through
various programs, exhibitions, and publications
Objectives
The primary objectives of the National Library of India are:
1. Preservation: To collect, preserve, and safeguard published materials for future generations.
2. Accessibility: To provide access to a vast array of resources, both physical and digital, for
users.
3. Bibliographic Control: To compile and publish a national bibliography, listing all
publications produced in the country.
4. Promotion of Knowledge: To promote reading, research, and lifelong learning among the
public.
5. Cultural Promotion: To support and promote India's rich cultural and literary heritage
through various programs and exhibitions.
Functions
The National Library performs several crucial functions to achieve its objectives:
1. Collection Development: Acquiring and cataloging books, periodicals, manuscripts, and
digital resources.
2. Legal Deposit: Implementing the Delivery of Books Act, 1954, to ensure publishers submit
copies of their works.
3. Reference Services: Providing assistance to users in locating and utilizing resources,
including digital databases.
4. Digitization: Digitizing rare and fragile materials to preserve them and make them accessible
online.
5. Exhibitions and Programs: Organizing exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events to engage
the public and promote knowledge.
6. International Cooperation: Participating in global library networks and collaborating with
international institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange.
Conclusion
The National Library of India stands as a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its
literary and cultural heritage. With its vast collection, specialized services, and dedication to
accessibility and preservation, it plays a vital role in supporting research, education, and cultural
promotion. As it continues to evolve with the digital age, the library remains an indispensable
institution for scholars, researchers, and the general public.
Reference
 Dipti Bhog, "National Library of India," National Book Trust, India, 2002.

SPECIAL LIBRARIES
Introduction
Special libraries are specialized information centers that cater to specific groups or subjects. They are
typically found in organizations, corporations, government agencies, research institutions, and
professional associations, providing tailored services and resources to meet the unique needs of their
users.
Important Definitions
1. Special Library (ALA Definition): "A special library is a library maintained by an
individual, corporation, association, government agency, or any other group; or by a
foundation or other special funding agency to provide the necessary information for the
organization."
2. Special Library (UNESCO Definition): "A special library is a collection of materials
organized to provide pertinent information and services to a specific clientele and devoted to a
particular subject."
3. Special Library (IFLA Definition): "Special libraries are characterized by their
concentration on specialized information needs of a particular subject or type of users, and
their dedication to serving an organization's goals."
Characteristics of Special Libraries
1. Subject-Specific Collections: These libraries have collections focused on a particular field or
discipline, such as law, medicine, business, or science.
2. Expert Staff: The staff often possess specialized knowledge or expertise in the library's
subject area, enabling them to provide in-depth assistance.
3. Tailored Services: Services are customized to meet the specific needs of the library's user
community, offering specialized research assistance and information retrieval.
4. Limited Public Access: Access is usually restricted to members of the parent organization or
institution, unlike public libraries.
5. Integration with Organization: Special libraries are often integrated into the operations of
the parent organization, directly supporting its goals and activities.
 6. Use of Advanced Technology: These libraries frequently use advanced information
technologies and digital resources to provide efficient and up-to-date services.
Objectives of Special Libraries
1. Support Research and Development: Provide resources and services to support the research
and development activities of the parent organization.
2. Facilitate Information Access: Ensure that users have access to the latest and most relevant
information in their field.
3. Enhance Decision-Making: Assist in informed decision-making by providing accurate and
timely information.
4. Preserve Specialized Knowledge: Collect, organize, and preserve specialized knowledge
and information.
5. Promote Professional Growth: Support the professional development of users by providing
access to educational and training materials.
6. Efficiency in Information Management: Implement efficient information management
practices to streamline access to resources.
Services Provided by Special Libraries
1. Reference Services: Offering personalized reference assistance to help users find relevant
information and resources.
2. Research Support: Providing in-depth research support, including literature searches, data
analysis, and synthesis of information.
3. Information Retrieval: Assisting users in retrieving specific information from various
sources, including databases, journals, and archives.
4. Document Delivery: Facilitating the delivery of documents and materials to users, often
including interlibrary loans.
5. Training and Education: Conducting training sessions and workshops to improve users'
information literacy and research skills.
6. Digital Resources and Access: Providing access to digital resources, such as e-books, e-
journals, and online databases, ensuring that users have up-to-date information.
Examples of Special Libraries
Medical Libraries: These libraries provide access to medical research, journals, and resources
essential for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students. They often offer specialized services
such as systematic reviews and clinical trial support.
Law Libraries: Serving legal professionals, these libraries house comprehensive collections of
statutes, case law, legal periodicals, and reference materials. They support legal research, case
preparation, and continuing education.
Corporate Libraries: Found within companies, these libraries focus on industry-specific
information, market research, and competitive intelligence. They aid in business strategy, innovation,
and decision-making processes.
Academic Subject Libraries: These libraries cater to specific academic disciplines, such as
engineering, business, or arts. They provide tailored resources and services to support faculty,
researchers, and students in their academic pursuits.
Government Libraries: These libraries serve government agencies and provide access to policy
documents, legislative materials, and other information critical for public administration and
governance.
Conclusion
Special libraries play a crucial role in providing specialized information and services to support the
unique needs of their user communities. With their focused collections, expert staff, and tailored
services, these libraries contribute significantly to the success and growth of their parent
organizations. They ensure that users have access to the most relevant and current information,
facilitating research, decision-making, and professional development.
Reference
 F. Wilfrid Lancaster, "The Measurement and Evaluation of Library Services," Information
Resources Press, 1977.
 J. H. Shera, "Foundations of the Public Library: The Origins of the Public Library Movement
in New England, 1629-1855," University of Chicago Press, 1949.

Public Library
Definition
A public library is an institution that provides free access to books, resources, and information
services to the general public. It is designed to meet the educational, informational, cultural, and
recreational needs of the community it serves. According to UNESCO, a public library is "an
organization established, supported, and funded by the community, either through local, regional, or
national government or through other forms of community organization."
History of Public Libraries
 Ancient Roots: The concept of shared knowledge began with early libraries in ancient
Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece, which were accessible to a select group of scholars and
elites.
 Middle Ages: Monastic libraries in Europe preserved knowledge, but access was limited to
clergy and scholars.
 Modern Public Libraries: The modern public library movement began in the 19th century,
with pioneers like Andrew Carnegie funding libraries to promote education and literacy. In
1850, the Public Libraries Act in Britain formally established publicly funded libraries.
 Global Expansion: Public libraries have since grown worldwide, becoming essential centers
for learning and community engagement.

Characteristics of Public Libraries

1. Universal Access: Free and open to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic
status.
2. Community-Focused: Designed to serve the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of
the local community.
3. Diverse Collections: Provide books, newspapers, magazines, digital resources, and
multimedia materials.
 4. Democratic Nature: Operate on the principle of equal access to information for all members
of society.
5. Services for All Ages: Offer resources and programs for children, adults, and seniors.
6. Dynamic and Adaptive: Continuously evolve to include digital resources, internet access,
and modern technology.

Objectives of Public Libraries

1. Promote Literacy and Education: Encourage reading habits and provide resources for self-
learning.
2. Support Lifelong Learning: Serve as centers for continuous education and skill
development.
3. Provide Free Access to Information: Offer knowledge and resources on various topics to all
community members.
4. Preserve Cultural Heritage: Maintain local history and cultural resources for future
generations.
5. Facilitate Community Engagement: Act as a hub for cultural, social, and educational
activities.
6. Bridge the Digital Divide: Provide access to computers, the internet, and digital resources.

Functions of Public Libraries

1. Collection Development: Acquire and maintain a diverse range of resources, including
books, journals, and digital materials.
2. Reference and Information Services: Help users locate and use resources effectively for
education or research.
3. Programs and Activities: Organize workshops, reading programs, and cultural events for the
community.
4. Children’s Services: Provide storytime, educational games, and other resources tailored for
young learners.
5. Technology Access: Offer free internet, digital literacy training, and access to modern
technology.
6. Community Support: Provide spaces for meetings, discussions, and community-building
activities.
7. Preservation of Local History: Archive historical documents, newspapers, and artifacts
relevant to the community.

References
1. UNESCO. (1994). Public Library Manifesto. Available at: unesco.org
2. Ranganathan, S. R. (1931). The Five Laws of Library Science. Bangalore: Madras Library
Association.