National Library of India facts for kids
The National Library of India is the biggest library in India. It is like a special treasure chest for all the books, maps, and other important writings from India. This huge library is located in Kolkata, a big city in the state of West Bengal. Its main job is to collect and keep every book, newspaper, and magazine published in India. It also has many old and rare items.
Quick facts for kids National Library of India |
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| National Library | |
| Country | India |
| Type | National library |
| Established | 1836 (as Calcutta Public Library) 30 January 1903 (as Imperial Library) 1 February 1953 (as National Library of India) |
| Location | Belvedere Estate, Kolkata, West Bengal |
| Coordinates | 22°32′00″N 88°20′00″E / 22.533206°N 88.333318°E |
| Other information | |
| Director | shravan kumar |
| Website | nationallibrary.gov.in |
Contents
About India's National Library
The National Library of India is a very important place. It is not just a library where you can borrow books. It is a special library that keeps a copy of almost every book printed in India. This helps to make sure that all of India's written history and knowledge is saved for future generations. It is a place for students, researchers, and anyone who wants to learn more about India.
A Rich History
The library has a long and interesting history. It started a long time ago, even before India became independent.
From Public to Imperial
The library first opened in 1836. It was called the Calcutta Public Library back then. It was a place where people could come and read books. Later, in 1903, it was renamed the Imperial Library. This happened when India was under British rule. The idea was to make it a very large and important library for the whole country.
Becoming the National Library
After India became independent in 1947, the library became even more important. On February 1, 1953, it was officially opened as the National Library of India. Important leaders like Abul Kalam Azad, who was India's first Minister of Education, were there for the opening. This made it the main library for the entire nation.
What Does a National Library Do?
A national library has several key jobs. Its main purpose is to collect and preserve all the books, magazines, and other printed materials published in the country. This means it has a copy of almost everything ever written and printed in India. It also collects books from other countries. The library helps people do research and learn about different topics. It is a place where knowledge is kept safe and shared.
Exploring the Library's Home
The National Library of India is located in a beautiful area called Belvedere Estate in Kolkata. This estate used to be the home of the British Viceroys and Governors of Bengal. It is a large and peaceful place with many old buildings and gardens. The library building itself is very grand and impressive, showing its importance to the nation.
Images for kids
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National Library
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Formal opening of the National Library, c. 1 February 1953. Among those present are (from left to right) B. C. Roy, Maulana Azad, HC. Mukherjee, SS Bhatnagar, Humayun Kabir, and BS Kesavan.
See also
In Spanish: Biblioteca Nacional de la India para niños
