Patna, the capital of Bihar, is not just a city of rich history and culture but also a paradise for book lovers. Whether you are a student, researcher, or an avid reader, the city offers a variety of libraries filled with knowledge and resources. If you are looking for a quiet place to read and explore books, here’s a list of the 10 best libraries in Patna that you must visit.
10 Best Libraries in Patna
The Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library, situated along the banks of the Ganges in Patna, Bihar, is a repository of rare Islamic manuscripts and books. Established in 1891 by Khan Bahadur Khuda Bakhsh, it began with 4,000 manuscripts, including 1,400 inherited from his father. Today, the library houses over 21,000 manuscripts and 250,000 printed books in various languages. Renowned for its collection of Persian and Arabic manuscripts, it also features paintings from the Mughal and Rajput eras. Recognized as an institution of national importance, the library continues to attract scholars worldwide.
- Special Collections: Persian, Arabic, Urdu, and English books
- Membership: Free access for all, but registration is required for borrowing books
Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library - Best Libraries in Patna
2. Sinha Library
The Sinha Library is a well-known public library in Patna, India, that was founded in 1924 by Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha. It has an extensive collection of about 180,000 books, including historical papers and rare manuscripts. Among the notable objects are books by Jawaharlal Nehru, Buddhist suttas, copies of the Quran, the Sacred Books of the East, and a copy of the original Indian Constitution. Historical newspapers including Mahatma Gandhi’s “Harijan,” “Indian People,” “Bihari Times,” “Criterion Searchlight,” “Leader,” and “Aryavarta” are also preserved by the library. The Sinha Library is still an essential resource for academics and book lovers alike, and it is open to anyone who truly needs it.
- Best For: Research scholars, law students
- Membership: Available for students and professionals
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SInha Library - Best Libraries in Patna
3. Impact Library
Impact Library, located in Patna’s Kankarbagh area, is a premier self-study center offering a serene environment for students. Amenities include private seating, book rental and purchase services, stationery supplies, and 100% power backup, ensuring an uninterrupted study experience. Situated at Ram Govind Singh Path, Chandmari Road, near Kishor Kunal Park, the library has garnered positive feedback, boasting a 4.8-star rating based on 71 reviews.
Impact Library - Best Libraries in Patna
4. Anand Library
Anand Library, located on the first floor of Dev Pushp Villa near the petrol pump on E Boring Canal Road in Anandpuri, Patna, operates 24/7, offering a conducive environment for self-study. It provides amenities such as purified drinking water, Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and sufficient lighting, enhancing the study experience. The library has received positive feedback for its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for students preparing for competitive exams.
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Anand Library - Best Libraries in Patna
Patna University Library, established in 1919, is housed in a spacious three-storied building inaugurated in 1958. It boasts a vast collection of approximately 2.76 lakh books, 15,000 journals, over 25,000 PhD theses, and 5,763 rare manuscripts, some dating back to the 14th century. The library is undergoing automation to enhance accessibility, with 30,000 books digitized and 18,000 barcoded. Additionally, it offers anti-plagiarism checks for research scholars and is integrating with the National Digital Library to provide extensive e-resources.
- Best For: University students and faculty
- Resources: Digital and print collections
Bihar Legislative Council Library - Best Libraries in Patna
Patna University Library, established in 1919, is housed in a spacious three-storied building inaugurated in 1958. It boasts a vast collection of approximately 2.76 lakh books, 15,000 journals, over 25,000 PhD theses, and 5,763 rare manuscripts, some dating back to the 14th century. The library is undergoing automation to enhance accessibility, with 30,000 books digitized and 18,000 barcoded. Additionally, it offers anti-plagiarism checks for research scholars and is integrating with the National Digital Library to provide extensive e-resources.
- Best For: University students and faculty
- Resources: Digital and print collections
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Patna University Library - Best Libraries in Patna
7. A. N. Sinha Institute Library
The A. N. Sinha Institute Library, founded in 1958, is the premier collection of social sciences literature in eastern India. It is housed in a dedicated three-story structure and has about 33,000 books as well as approximately 32,888 bound volumes of periodicals and reports. The library subscribes to 120 Indian and foreign journals and has a one-of-a-kind “JP Collection” consisting of over 3,000 volumes donated by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan. International bodies including UNCTAD and UNESCO have designated it as a depository. Since 1911, it has also published a quarterly bulletin called “Bihar in Print,” which covers literature on Bihar and Jharkhand.
Access: Open for scholars and students with proper authorization
A. N. Sinha Institute Library - Best Libraries in Patna
8. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna Library
The Central Library of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna is a sophisticated facility that meets the academic demands of its community. The library, which opened in December 2008 with about 1,000 books and one online resource, has since grown to include over 14,000 books and 39 online resources, including e-books and e-journals. It uses innovative automation systems with self-check-in and check-out capabilities, allowing members to issue and return books at any time. The library provides a tranquil setting for learning and research.
Best For: Science and technology enthusiasts
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IIT Patna Library - Best Libraries in Patna
The Shrikrishna Science Centre in Patna, founded in 1978, is Bihar’s foremost science museum, named after Dr. Shrikrishna Singh, the state’s first chief minister. It is a unit of the National Council of Science Museums, which is part of the Ministry of Culture in India. It provides interactive exhibits that make science accessible and interesting to visitors of all ages. The center’s galleries include the Fun Science Gallery, the Mirrors and Images Gallery, and the Evolution Gallery, all of which are meant to give hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, the Science Park and Jurassic Park portions provide outdoor exhibits, such as moving dinosaur models, to enhance the educational experience. The center also offers monthly educational events and activities to encourage a scientific mindset among students.
Sri Krishna Science Centre Library - Best Libraries in Patna
10. The JR Knowledge hub LIBRARY
Located in Kankarbagh, Patna, The JR Knowledge Hub LIBRARY is a 24-hour facility catering to the city’s avid readers. Situated near Laxmi Girls Hostel, above Nandlal Sweets, it offers a conducive environment for self-study, allowing patrons to bring their own materials. The library has garnered an impressive 5-star rating based on 165 reviews, reflecting its commitment to providing a serene and resourceful space for learners.
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The JR Knowledge hub LIBRARY - Best Libraries in Patna
Why Visit a Library in Patna?
Libraries offer more than just books—they provide a peaceful and knowledge-rich environment. Here’s why you should visit:
- Access to rare and valuable books
- A quiet place to study and research
- Digital and online resources for modern readers
Conclusion
Patna has some of India’s best libraries, which serve a wide range of reading and research needs. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or casual reader, you’ll find a library to meet your needs. So, explore these knowledge portals!
Frequently Asked Questions
Sinha Library, established in 1924, is one of the oldest in Patna.
Some university libraries allow external members with prior approval.
The British Library Patna has a vast collection of English books.
Yes, many libraries provide access to digital books and online resources.
Bihar Public Library and Sinha Library are ideal for exam aspirants.
