Delhi: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the state-of-the-art Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library at Udyan Marg in New Delhi, providing a major facility for students, researchers, competitive exam aspirants and book lovers.
Developed by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), the modern library offers physical books, digital resources, research facilities, free Wi-Fi and advanced technology-based services. The facility aims to promote reading culture and provide young people with a dedicated centre for learning and knowledge development.
Modern Library Built Over 2,265 Square Metres with Advanced Facilities
The newly opened Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library has been developed over an area of approximately 2,265 square metres.
The library can accommodate around 200 readers at a time and includes several modern facilities such as:
- Advanced reading areas
- Research centre
- Children’s kids zone
- Multipurpose auditorium
- Free Wi-Fi facility
- RFID-based book management system
- Digital learning facilities
The library will also be connected with the National Digital Library of India, allowing readers access to extensive online resources.
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Over 35,000 Books and 1 Crore E-Books Available for Readers
The library houses a collection of more than 35,000 books, research journals and reference materials covering various subjects, including education, research and general knowledge.
Along with physical books, the library provides access to more than 1 crore e-books and digital resources through its e-library section.
Readers will be able to access online books, digital catalogues, download study material and use digital facilities for research and learning purposes.
Amit Shah Says Libraries Shape the Future of the Nation
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Amit Shah said that the future of a country is not decided only by agriculture, markets or industries, but by the young people who visit libraries and develop knowledge.
He said reading improves a person’s ability to think, analyse and understand different perspectives.
Sharing his personal experience, the Home Minister said that libraries played an important role in shaping his life. He encouraged young people to develop the habit of reading and remain connected with libraries.
He said:
“Before speaking, one should think, and before thinking, one should read, because the right thought comes through books.”
Amit Shah Appeals to Connect All Delhi Libraries with Schools
Amit Shah urged the Delhi Government to create a system connecting all public libraries across the capital and linking them with schools.
He suggested preparing a roadmap to encourage more students and book enthusiasts to use library facilities.
He also requested the staff of Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library to connect with schools in nearby assembly areas and motivate students to visit the library regularly.
The Home Minister said that once young people develop a reading habit, they can move forward independently and contribute to nation-building.
Library Dedicated to Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan’s Legacy
Amit Shah said the library, named after Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan, will become a centre of knowledge, ideas and intellectual development for the youth.
He highlighted JP’s contribution to India’s freedom movement, democracy and social transformation.
The Home Minister recalled that Jayaprakash Narayan:
- Played a major role in the Quit India Movement
- Worked for social reforms
- Promoted the Sarvodaya movement
- Helped bring hundreds of dacoits into the mainstream in the Chambal region
- Led movements for democracy during the Emergency period
He said JP’s commitment to democracy continues to inspire generations.
CM Rekha Gupta Calls Library a Major Gift for Delhi Youth
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library as a major gift for students and young people of the capital.
She said the library will especially benefit students preparing for:
- UPSC examinations
- Other competitive exams
- Research and academic pursuits
The Chief Minister said the facility will provide a peaceful study environment along with modern resources to help young people achieve their goals.
NDMC Highlights Digital and Research Facilities
NDMC Chairman Keshav Chandra said the library has been designed as a modern knowledge centre with advanced infrastructure.
He informed that the two-storey building provides:
- Seating arrangements for nearly 200 readers
- More than 35,000 physical books
- Research journals and reference publications
- Digital library access
- Online resources and e-book facilities
The library’s RFID-based management system will help improve book tracking and user experience.
Technology-Based Learning Centre for Future Generations
The Jayaprakash Narayan Public Library aims to become a hub for education, research and innovation by combining traditional reading resources with digital technology.
With access to millions of digital resources, modern study spaces and research facilities, the library is expected to provide new opportunities for Delhi’s students and youth.
The initiative reflects a focus on strengthening knowledge infrastructure and encouraging a culture of reading among citizens.
