State Central Library Conservation Effort Stalls After Three Years

The State Central Library is experiencing significant delays in its conservation efforts, which commenced three years ago. The project's slow and inconsistent pace has led to disappointment among library officials and users alike. The heritage building, a 1936 structure, remains partially inaccessible, with large sections, including most of the English books, closed off due to ongoing repairs.

Readers attempting to utilize the facility find themselves displaced, often studying in shaded outdoor areas or under makeshift tin sheds. Many students preparing for competitive examinations, such as NEET, bring their own study materials due to perceived inadequacies in the library's collection for advanced study. The library reportedly holds over five lakh books, with nearly two lakh in English.

Beyond the conservation work, the library faces a critical staff shortage. Out of 104 sanctioned positions, only 33 regular staff members are currently employed, supplemented by 16 outsourced workers and nine junior assistants hired after a recent government change. The post of chief librarian remains vacant. This deficit impacts the library's ability to maintain its facilities and organize its extensive collection, which has seen declining patronage over the years due to disorganization, staff gaps, and poor amenities.

Financially, the library's budget heavily favors salaries, with ₹4.35 crore allocated for staff compensation in the revised estimates for 2025-26, while only ₹8.21 lakh is designated for other expenses. This limited allocation for maintenance is evident in the building's condition and its surroundings, which are cluttered with commercial operations and parked vehicles, contrasting with its historical status.