National Library of India : a historical perspective

Traces the history of organized document collections of India from very ancient times, the contribution of Europeans especially the British rulers of India for systematization and conservation of such collections, and the origins of public library systems that culminated in the establishment of the National Library of India. Critically evaluates the National Library system of India as well as its present set up, resources and services. The paper argues that the main characteristics of a national library, which distinctly delineate it from other types of libraries is its specialization in a particular geographical area for its content. It should achieve maximum reliability of the collection in that mandatory area. The paper points out that in coverage and reliability in the mandatory areas as well as in extending services to the expected users including those living in remote villages; Indian National Library has failed. The study suggests decentralization of the resources by physically spreading it among the regions of concerned languages, establishment of subject specific divisions and other measure that can enable the National Library of India to fulfill its objectives