Public libraries are important institutions that provide access to a wide range of resources for education and self-improvement. In Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, public libraries play a crucial role in promoting literacy and intellectual growth among its citizens.
In this blog post, we will explore the public library system in Islamabad, its history, growth, and the major libraries in the city. We will discuss the resources available, including books, magazines, newspapers, and digital media, as well as the services provided, such as computer and internet access, reference assistance, and educational programming.
Whether you are a student, a scholar, or simply a curious reader, the public libraries in Islamabad provide a valuable resource for learning and personal growth. This blog post will provide insights into the public library system in Islamabad and its role in promoting literacy and intellectual development in the community.
Impact of public libraries on the Community
Public libraries are an essential community resource that offers numerous benefits to individuals and society as a whole. Libraries provide access to information and knowledge, promote literacy and education, and foster a sense of community and social connection.
One of the most significant impacts of public libraries is their role in promoting literacy and education. Libraries offer free access to a vast collection of books, magazines, and other educational resources, making them excellent resources for people of all ages and backgrounds. They also offer various programs and workshops to promote literacy, including reading programs for children and adult education classes. By providing access to these resources and programs, public libraries help bridge the educational gap and promote lifelong learning.
In addition to promoting literacy and education, public libraries also play a crucial role in fostering social connection and community. Libraries are gathering places for people of all ages and backgrounds, offering a safe and inclusive space for community members to come together and engage with each other. Libraries also host various events and activities, including book clubs, workshops, and cultural events, that bring people together and help build social connections.
List of Public Libraries in Islamabad
- National Library Of Pakistan, G-5
- Quaid Public Library, F-9
- CDA Public Library and Gym, F-11, and G-11
- Islamabad Community Library, I-10
- Islamabad Public Library, H-9
- National Resource Library, F-7
- Smart Street Library, F-6
National Library Of Pakistan, G-5
The National Library of Pakistan, located in G-5 sector of Islamabad, is the largest public library in Pakistan. Established in 1950, the library is tasked with the responsibility of acquiring, preserving, and providing access to national and international knowledge resources. It holds a collection of more than 400,000 books, journals, newspapers, magazines, maps, manuscripts, and other materials in various languages including Urdu, English, Persian, Arabic, and Chinese.
The library is open to the general public as well as researchers, scholars, and students. Membership is required to borrow materials from the library, but anyone can access the materials within the library premises. In addition to its collection, the library also offers various services such as reference and research assistance, inter-library loan, photocopying, and digitization services.
The library has a spacious reading room and is equipped with modern facilities such as computer systems with internet access, scanners, printers and photocopiers. The library also organizes various events and activities such as book launches, lectures, and exhibitions on a regular basis to promote reading and literacy in the community.
Overall, the National Library of Pakistan is an important resource for students, scholars, researchers and the general public, and plays a vital role in promoting education and intellectual development in the country.
Quaid Public Library, F-9
Quaid Public Library is located in the F-9 sector of Islamabad, Pakistan. It was established in 1986 and named after the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The library is situated in a beautiful building with modern infrastructure and provides a wide range of facilities to its visitors.
Quaid Public Library has a vast collection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, reference, and academic books. It also offers digital access to e-books, audiobooks, and journals. The library has a reading hall that can accommodate up to 200 people at a time and provides a peaceful and quiet environment for studying and research.
The library has an active membership program, and anyone can become a member by paying a nominal fee. Members have access to all the facilities and can borrow books for a specified period. The library also offers computer and internet facilities to its members and visitors.
Quaid Public Library organizes various literary and cultural events throughout the year, including book launches, seminars, and workshops. These events provide a platform for writers, scholars, and researchers to share their work and ideas with the public. The library also has a children’s section with a vast collection of books and toys, which makes it a popular destination for families with kids.
Overall, Quaid Public Library is an excellent resource for students, researchers, and book lovers in Islamabad. Its vast collection, modern infrastructure, and various facilities make it a unique and valuable institution in the city.
CDA Public Library and Gym, F-11 and G-11
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) Public Libraries are two public libraries located in Islamabad, one in F-11 and the other in G-11. Both libraries offer a range of books, magazines, newspapers, and other reference materials for free to the public.
The CDA Public Library in F-11 is located in the commercial area of the sector, adjacent to the F-11 Markaz. It is a spacious facility with separate reading areas for children and adults. The library has a collection of over 20,000 books on a variety of subjects, including literature, history, politics, and religion. In addition to books, the library also has a collection of magazines, newspapers, and research journals. There are comfortable seating arrangements for visitors, as well as computer and internet facilities for research and study purposes.
The CDA Public Library in G-11 is located near the G-11 Markaz and is also a spacious facility with a large collection of books and reference materials. The library has a dedicated children’s section with books and educational toys, as well as a separate adult reading area. The library’s collection includes books on various subjects, including history, literature, science, and technology. The library also has a section of magazines, newspapers, and journals, and offers computer and internet facilities for research and study purposes.
In addition to the libraries, both CDA Public Library branches in F-11 and G-11 also have a gymnasium facility. The gym is equipped with modern exercise equipment and offers a range of fitness programs, including aerobics, yoga, and weight training. The gym is open to the public, and membership fees are charged on a monthly or yearly basis.
Islamabad Community Library, I-10
The Islamabad Community Library, located in the I-10 sector of Islamabad, is a non-profit community library that is open to the public. It was established in 2008 and is run by volunteers who are passionate about promoting education and reading in the community.
The library has a diverse collection of books in both English and Urdu, covering a wide range of topics including fiction, non-fiction, history, and science. There are also a number of reference books available for students and researchers. In addition to books, the library has a collection of DVDs and CDs that can be borrowed.
The Islamabad Community Library also hosts a number of events and workshops throughout the year, such as book clubs, story time for children, and writing workshops. These events are designed to promote reading and writing in the community and to provide a space for people to come together and share their love of literature.
The library is free to use for all members of the community, and visitors are welcome to come in and browse the collection or sit and read in the peaceful surroundings of the library. The Islamabad Community Library is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to explore the world of literature and expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
Islamabad Public Library, H-9
The Islamabad Public Library, located in H-9 sector, is one of the largest public libraries in the city. It was established in 1993 and is under the supervision of the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The library has a vast collection of books, journals, and other reading materials on various topics, including history, literature, science, and technology. It also offers audio and visual materials, such as CDs and DVDs, and has a separate section for children’s books.
The library has a peaceful and calm atmosphere that makes it an ideal place for students and researchers to study and work. It has comfortable seating arrangements, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, which makes it a popular spot for people who need a quiet place to study or work.
The Islamabad Public Library also offers a range of services, including photocopying, printing, and scanning facilities. It also provides access to online databases, and visitors can use the library’s computers to access the internet and other digital resources.
The library has a dedicated team of staff members who are always ready to assist visitors with their queries and provide guidance on how to find the required information. The Islamabad Public Library is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, and visitors can avail of its services for free.
National Resource Library, F-7
The National Resource Library is one of the most significant public libraries in Islamabad. It is located in the F-7 sector and provides a wide range of services to the public. The library has a vast collection of books, magazines, and newspapers in various fields such as science, technology, literature, history, and religion. In addition, the library also has a collection of rare manuscripts, documents, and other research materials.
The National Resource Library is an excellent place for researchers, students, and scholars who want to access information and material for their research and studies. The library offers a quiet and comfortable environment for reading and studying. It also has computer facilities, Wi-Fi access, and printing services for its users.
The library is open to the public from Monday to Saturday, and its working hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It has a membership system, and anyone can become a member by filling out a membership form and paying a nominal fee. The library also conducts various educational and cultural events, such as book fairs, lectures, and seminars, to promote reading and learning among the community. Overall, the National Resource Library is an excellent resource for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge and learning new things.
Smart Street Library, F-6
The Smart Street Library is a unique and innovative initiative located in F-6, Islamabad. It is a mobile library, housed in a renovated shipping container, which travels around the city to promote the culture of reading and provide easy access to books for all. The library is open to the public and offers a variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books in both English and Urdu.
The Smart Street Library also offers various programs and events, such as book clubs, writing workshops, and author talks, to promote literacy and encourage a love for reading. It aims to create a community of book lovers and provide a space for intellectual and cultural exchange.
The library is equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, providing a comfortable and conducive environment for reading and learning. It is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, whether you are a student, a book lover, or just looking for a quiet place to read and relax.
FAQs on Public Libraries in Islamabad
What is a public library?
A public library is a space where people can borrow books, magazines, newspapers, and other reading materials for free. It is a place where people can read, study, and learn in a peaceful and quiet environment.
Where are the public libraries located in Islamabad?
Islamabad has several public libraries located in different areas of the city. The National Library of Pakistan, Islamabad Public Library, and Quaid-e-Azam Public Library are some of the most well-known public libraries in Islamabad.
What kinds of books are available in the public libraries in Islamabad?
Public libraries in Islamabad have a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, biographies, history, science, and technology. They also have books for children and young adults.
Can I borrow books from the public libraries in Islamabad?
Yes, you can borrow books from the public libraries in Islamabad. You will need to register for a library card and follow the borrowing rules and regulations.
Is there a fee to use the public libraries in Islamabad?
No, there is no fee to use the public libraries in Islamabad. They are open to everyone, and borrowing books is free of charge.
Are the public libraries in Islamabad open on weekends?
Yes, most public libraries in Islamabad are open on weekends. However, their opening and closing times may vary, so it’s best to check with the library before visiting on a weekend.
Are there any special events or programs at the public libraries in Islamabad?
Yes, public libraries in Islamabad often organize special events and programs, such as book clubs, writing workshops, and storytime sessions for children. These events and programs are designed to encourage reading, learning, and community engagement.
