10 Oldest Famous Public Libraries of Pakistan

Libraries play a crucial role in our lives as they provide a safe space for people to explore new ideas, access information, and learn new things, The library is regarded as a treasure trove of information; it is a place where conventional history books, magazines, manuscripts, newspapers, and other types of written materials are kept.

Every society needs libraries because they provide access to a wealth of information and a variety of cultures. In this post we will provide you with a list of “10 Oldest Famous public Libraries of Pakistan”. 

10 Oldest Famous Public Libraries of Pakistan

10 Oldest Famous public Libraries of Pakistan are listed below 

1. The National Library of Pakistan 
2. Quaid-e-Azam Library
3. Frere Hall karachi 
4. Allama Iqbal Library Sialkot
5. Punjab public Library 
6. Shahnawaz bhutto public Library 
7. Hasrat Mohani District Central Library  
8. Allama Iqbal Public Library Faisalabad 
9. Liaquat Memorial Library 
10. Army Central Library 

1. The National Library of Pakistan, Islamabad 

The National Library of Pakistan, located in Islamabad, is one of the country’s most prominent and significant libraries. It was established in 1950 and serves as a pillar for preserving and developing Pakistan’s literary and cultural heritage.

The National Library, is home to a large and varied collection of books, manuscripts, journals, and reference materials.

Its collections cover a wide range of topics, from history and literature to science and technology, and they are designed to meet the educational and research needs of academics, students, and the general public.

2. Quaid-e-Azam Library, Lahore 

The Quaid-e-Azam Library, situated in Lahore, Pakistan, is a renowned institution named in honor of the country’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Established in 1866, It ranks as one of Pakistan’s oldest and most prestigious libraries.

As the repository to an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, journals, and other literary resources, this historic library is a veritable knowledge treasure trove. Due of the range of its subject coverage, it is a helpful resource for academics, students, and researchers.

Historical records, priceless manuscripts, and a wide range of literature in both Urdu and English are all part of the library’s collection.

3. Frere Hall, Karachi 

The iconic Frere Hall building in Karachi, Pakistan, is a renowned institution known for its rich literary heritage and historical significance. The Frere Hall library has a rich history that dates back to the British colonial era, when Frere Hall was built in the 1860s.

A wide variety of books, journals, reference items, and historical documents are kept at the library.
Its collection, which covers a variety of topics including literature, history, arts, science, and more.

In addition to its literary resources, Frere Hall Library has been a cultural hub, hosting literary events, book launches, and exhibitions.

4. Allama Iqbal Library, Sialkot

The Allama Iqbal Library was established in 1894 and is around 129 years old. A sizable collection of books, manuscripts, and reference materials is kept at the Allama Iqbal Library, with an emphasis on the philosopher, poet, and author’s works.

The library includes works in several subjects, such as literature, philosophy, history, and the arts. There are thousands of books available in English, Urdu, Persian, Arabic, etc.

5. Punjab Public Library, Lahore 

The Punjab Public Library, located in Lahore, Pakistan, is one of the oldest and most prestigious public libraries in the region.The Punjab Public Library was established in 1884 during British colonial rule, making it one of the oldest public libraries in Pakistan.

Its holdings, which meet the educational and research needs of a large audience, span a variety of areas, including literature, history, science,  philosophy, and more.

6. Shahnawaz bhutto public Library, Larkana 

The Shahnawaz Bhutto Public Library was founded in 1984 and is located in Larkana, Pakistan. Since it contains entrance test books for students studying for their entry level tests, hundreds of students visit this library.

The books are available in both English and Urdu so that the students can pick the ones they like. In addition, it contains data about other topics, such as history, science, the arts, and literature.

7. Hasrat Mohani District Central Library, Hyderabad 

Hasrat Mohani district central Library, is a well-known library located in Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. It was established in 1905 making it one of the oldest library in the region.

A large number of books, including literary masterpieces, historical texts, reference materials, and periodicals in numerous languages, can be found at the Hasrat Mohani Central District Library.

Its holdings are not limited to literature but also cover subjects like history, culture, and the arts. The library is open to the public and provides a peaceful and conducive environment for reading, research, and study.

8. Allama Iqbal Public Library, Faisalabad 

The Allama Iqbal Public Library in Faisalabad, Pakistan, is a well-known prominent institution that acts as an essential resource for the city’s education, culture, and research. Since its inception in 1911, the library has had a rich history and legacy.

The Allama Iqbal Public Library has a diverse book collection that includes a wide range of subjects such as literature, history, science, and more.

It is a useful educational resource for Faisalabad’s students, researchers, and academics. The collection of the library is a rich source of knowledge and research material.

9. Liaquat Memorial Library, Karachi

The Liaquat Memorial Library, founded in 1951, is a well-known library in Karachi, Pakistan. Among the country’s public libraries, the library boasts the largest collection.

The Liaquat Memorial Library houses thousands of books and other reading resources. The library provides facilities for reading, studying, and research, creating an environment suitable to intellectual pursuits.

10. Army Central Library, Rawalpindi

The Army Central Library in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, originates from the beginning of the 20th century. The library has grown over the years and now occupies a big structure on the other side of the GHQ in Rawalpindi.

The library is open to the public and contains hundreds of books, periodicals, and records. The Army Central Library is a valuable resource for military historians and researchers. The library has a massive book collection and is Pakistan’s largest repository of military history.

summary

Libraries continue to hold a special place in a country steeped in rich cultural heritage and a great love of information. Learn how these libraries have not only preserved the written word, but also played a vital role in promoting literacy, scholarship, and a deep appreciation for Pakistan’s intellectual past.