National Library of Pakistan (Urdu: قومى שتب خانׁ پاשستان) is a symbol of the nation’s dedication to literacy and education as well as its rich cultural legacy. This famous institution, which is close to the Red Zone in the centre of Islamabad, is a repository of information and a representation of Pakistan’s commitment to conserving its cultural and intellectual heritage. The National Library is an essential resource for scholars, students, and the general public because of its extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and digital materials.
A Centre of Culture and Knowledge
Many people consider Pakistan’s National Library to be one of the most important and ancient cultural establishments in the nation. It contains both old and modern literature, making it a premier information resource. About 66% of all serial publications and 50–55% of all book publications in Pakistan are included in the library’s vast collection. Because of this, it is a vital tool for those wishing to learn more about the country’s rich literary and intellectual legacy.
Marvellous Architecture
Pakistan’s cultural identity is reflected in the library’s design, which combines traditional Eastern architecture with contemporary utility. In addition to being aesthetically beautiful, the structure is quite practical and provides a variety of amenities for guests. These consist of:
Reading Areas: With space for up to 500 patrons at once, the library offers a calm setting for research and study.
Research Rooms: Scholars and academicians have access to fifteen special research rooms.
Auditorium: Lectures, seminars, and cultural events are held in this 450-seat auditorium.
Digital Services: To provide access to both digital and physical materials, the library provides computer and microfilm services.
The National Library has been working to advance literacy and function as a vibrant cultural and educational hub in Islamabad since its official launch in 1993. Since its founding, the collection has expanded dramatically, beginning with 130,000 books and 600 manuscripts.
An Exploration of History
Like the material it holds, the National Library of Pakistan has a rich and varied past. Although the concept of a national library was originally put out in 1949, the Ministry of Education (MoEd) did not formally create the library until 1951. The library had no physical infrastructure at first, but in 1954 it became the Liaquat National Library (LNL) after merging with the Liaquat Memorial Library in Karachi.
Moving to Islamabad
Plans to relocate the library to Islamabad, the recently created capital of Pakistan, were initiated in 1963. The National library moved to Islamabad, and the Liaquat library was split off by 1968. Before the construction of its permanent home was finished in 1988, the library functioned for many years out of rented facilities. Although some academics, such as Syed Jalaluddin Haider, date the library’s existence to April 1999, when the Department of Libraries’ 100,000-volume collection was transferred to the new facility, the library was formally launched on August 24, 1993.
Legal Establishments and Development
Legal requirements that guaranteed the library’s collection would keep growing supported its expansion. The right to get copies of any copyrighted works produced in Pakistan was given to the library in 1962. When the library started obtaining two copies of each book, map, image, and diagram printed in the nation in 1963, this was further supported.
The establishment of Bangladesh resulted in the transfer of important items to the newly created country, making the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 a major issue for the library. The library went through a phase of repair and expansion in spite of this setback, ultimately becoming a more important and powerful organisation.
Modern Developments
The National Library underwent a sea change in the 1980s when a special facility was constructed close to the Supreme Court’s library. The significance of the library as a national institution was highlighted by this development. With the passage of the Copyright (Amendment) Act in 1992, the library’s standing as a repository of the country’s published works was further cemented.
In order to reflect the evolving nature of information transmission in the digital era, the library’s scope was extended to include electronic publications in 2014. By taking this action, the library was guaranteed to stay current and function as a thorough resource for next generations.
The Mission of the National Library
The National Library of Pakistan is a thriving centre for education and culture in addition to being a storehouse of books. Its goals are to increase literacy, protect Pakistan’s literary legacy, and give everyone access to information. The library is essential in promoting a culture of study and intellectual curiosity since it provides a vast array of services and resources.
A Research and Education Centre
Researchers, academics, and students find refuge in the National Library’s vast collection and cutting-edge facilities. While the library’s auditorium hosts cultural and educational events, its study rooms and digital services make it the perfect setting for academic endeavours.
Preserving Pakistan's Heritage
Pakistan’s rich cultural and intellectual past is demonstrated by the library’s collection of rare books and manuscripts. The National Library guarantees that future generations will have access to the wisdom and knowledge of the past by conserving these works.
Promoting literacy and education.
The National Library is dedicated to encouraging reading and lifelong learning as a vibrant educational institution. The library aims to encourage a love of reading and learning in individuals of all ages via its many programs and projects.
One of the mainstays of Pakistan’s cultural and educational environment is the National Library. It is a priceless resource for the people of Pakistan because of its large collection, rich history, and dedication to advancing literacy. The National Library offers a wealth of information just waiting to be discovered, regardless of your background—researcher, student, or just a book lover. The library continues to be a symbol of Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to education and culture as it develops and adjusts to the shifting demands of society.
See the National Library of Pakistan: Don’t miss this venerable establishment if you’re in Islamabad. The National Library has plenty to offer everyone, whether you’re looking through old manuscripts or the newest online materials. It is more than simply a library; it is a doorway to Pakistan’s intellectual legacy, past, present, and future.
