The National Library of Pakistan (NLP) holds Pakistan’s literary heritage and is a top library in the country. Although the idea of a national library was formed in 1951 after independence, the NLP’s construction started in the early 1980s. It was officially opened in 1993.
The National Library of Pakistan is in Islamabad. It has two levels – the first has regular books, and the second has study rooms. There are lifts and book elevators connecting the floors. The library has a big hall called an Auditorium where 400 people can sit. It’s a popular place for cultural events in Islamabad. There are also reading rooms with 500 seats.
Graana.com has gathered everything you need to know about the National Library of Pakistan below.
Infrastructure
The National Library of Pakistan is a big library in Islamabad. You can find a lot of information whether you’re studying the country’s past or trying to understand current politics; this library has the answers you need.
In the late 1980s, the library relocated to a new building on Constitution Avenue in Islamabad, which offers a range of modern amenities. The building features an auditorium, 15 research rooms, and ample space to accommodate up to 500 readers at once.
Additionally, the library houses the Department of Libraries, which is responsible for publishing the Pakistan National Bibliography. Along with books, the library boasts special collections such as the Freedom Movement records and over 100,000 records from the All-India Muslim League.
The library has a huge collection of Pakistani books, more than 90,000. It also keeps documents from international organisations. The library organises talks and shows. It even has a lab to fix old items.
Different parts of the building have different uses. The basement used to be for books and phones. The ground floor has computers and a catalogue. The first floor has reading rooms and classrooms.
Collection of Books
The NLP is situated near the Prime Minister’s Office and contains a diverse assortment of 400,000 books, rare books and manuscripts. It was founded in 1986, but prior to that, the Liaquat National Library was originally established in Karachi. This earlier library relocated its collection to Islamabad.
Projects
Pakistan has initiated a program to improve library and information services in the country, as well as establish a national information network. As part of this effort, they have set up 5 computer centres in various areas of the country and trained over 400 librarians. Furthermore, they have contributed to the economy of the Pakistan Library Association through different projects.
The National Library of Pakistan has a crucial role in safeguarding Pakistan’s published literary works. It serves as the official repository for all published materials in the country and acts as a central hub for knowledge and library development in Pakistan. The library’s primary objective is to store a comprehensive record of knowledge.
This library is open to the general public. It attracts approximately 400 daily visitors, including remote users. Annually, around 30,000 people benefit from the library’s services. It offers a wide range of services, including online resources and a substantial collection of books.
Membership at NLP
The National Library of Pakistan stores important books and documents from Pakistan. It’s a crucial source of knowledge for the country. However, not many people are members, so not everyone can use its services.
With a vast collection exceeding 20,000 titles, including books covering topics like history and politics, the library provides a wealth of knowledge. It also subscribes to renowned law journals, granting members access to valuable resources such as the Supreme Court Monthly Review and the Pakistan Law Journal.
Moreover, members can explore the library’s online databases through Web OPAC. To ensure it remains responsive to its members’ needs, the library actively engages in regular meetings through its Committee for Library Services, demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement.
Initiatives
Libraries play a vital role in Pakistan, serving the nation’s interests as a crucial resource. However, they face challenges like insufficient funding. The government has taken steps to ensure libraries are financially sustainable and accessible to the public. Librarians lack a consistent pay scale, but the government aims to provide them with a status similar to college teachers.
The National Library of Pakistan preserves the country’s cultural heritage by collecting all published material. It strives to be the main repository of knowledge, being a member of global library communities.
Research shows a lack of women in leadership roles in Pakistani libraries. Efforts are needed to increase their representation. Libraries should support women’s growth, involve them in succession planning, and empower them to reach their potential.
The college libraries in Punjab have formed an association. The association hosts seminars and provides professional resources for its members. There are over 50 libraries in the province that are part of this association, and their information is maintained in a directory.
Computer Labs
Recently, the library opened a computer lab with 20 computers specifically designed for visually impaired individuals. This lab offers special programs to help them access the library’s data. The library is dedicated to creating more tech-based resources for the visually impaired and has set up a Braille Corner for their use.
Apart from its extensive manuscript and rare book collection, the library is also part of the global library community. It serves as a depository for international organisations such as the Asian Development Bank and the International Labour Organization. Additionally, it acts as the national ISBN agency for Pakistani publications.
In 1968, the Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Centre (PSTIC) created the first catalogue of periodicals in Pakistan using a computer. This marked the beginning of computer usage in libraries. In the 1980s, automation became more common in Pakistani libraries, which helped librarians do their work more efficiently. Nowadays, Pakistani libraries widely use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
Development
Pakistan is becoming more focused on information exchange as its people’s attitudes change. To support this growth, the country is developing an information network to enhance the efficient distribution of knowledge and information.
Collaborative initiatives with the private sector have been launched, providing essential resources for library development. International agencies have contributed by supplying computer equipment, developing software, networking, and training library staff. The World Health Organization’s regional office has specifically aided medical libraries by providing health sciences literature and organising ICT training workshops.
National Library of Pakistan Location
The National Library of Pakistan is a significant institution serving as the country’s knowledge repository. The library has a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other valuable resources that showcase Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
It also provides public access to various research materials and online databases, making it an essential resource centre for students, scholars, and researchers. In addition to its academic resources, the National Library of Pakistan also hosts various cultural events, exhibitions, and seminars, making it a hub for intellectual, social, and cultural exchange.
The location has been provided along with some other information below:
| Information Category | Details |
| Location | Islamabad |
| Short Name | NLP |
| Website | National Library of Pakistan |
| nationallibrary2000@yahoo.com <br> director@nlp.gov.pk | |
| Phone Numbers | +92 (0)51-9202549 <br> +92 (0)51-9207456, 9206436- Ext-214 |
| Fax Number | +92 (0)51-9217286 |
| Timings | Normal Days – 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Break – 1:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Fridays – 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays and other gazetted holidays |
| Address | National Library of Pakistan, Sharah-e-Jamhoriat, G-5 Islamabad |
| Charges | The membership fee is 300 Pakistani Rupees. |
FAQs
Here are some FAQs related to the National Library of Pakistan:
1. What is the National Library of Pakistan?
The National Library of Pakistan, located in Islamabad, is the country’s premier research and library facility, housing a vast collection of books and resources.
2. What services does the National Library of Pakistan offer?
The National Library of Pakistan offers a wide range of services, including access to a vast collection of books, free internet in its computer centres, and special programs for the visually impaired.
3. What are the National Library of Pakistan’s opening hours?
The library is open on normal days from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a break from 1:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. On Fridays, it is open from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The library remains closed on Sundays and gazetted holidays.
4. Is membership required to use the National Library of Pakistan?
Yes, membership is available at a fee of PKR 300 and provides access to the library’s extensive collection and services.
5. Does the National Library of Pakistan have facilities for visually impaired individuals?
Yes, the library has a dedicated computer lab with 20 computers and special programs to assist visually impaired individuals. It also has a Braille Corner for their use.
6. What is the contact information for the National Library of Pakistan?
You can contact the National Library of Pakistan at +92 (0)51-9202549 or via email at nationallibrary2000@yahoo.com or director@nlp.gov.pk.
7. Is there free internet access at the National Library of Pakistan?
Yes, the library provides free internet access through its computer centres.
8. What kind of collections does the National Library of Pakistan have?
The library houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and rare materials. It is also a member of the global library community and serves as a depository for international organisations.
9. How can I become a member of the National Library of Pakistan?
To become a member, you need to pay a membership fee of PKR 300. Membership grants access to the library’s resources and services.
10. Does the National Library of Pakistan have a website?
Yes, the National Library of Pakistan has a website where you can find more information about its services, collections, and resources. Visit the official website at http://www.nlp.gov.pk.
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