Mumbai boasts an array of libraries that serve as intellectual hubs for students, researchers, and book lovers. This article sheds light on some of the most prominent libraries in Mumbai, their history, and the facilities they offer to students.
Asiatic Society of Mumbai
Founded in 1804, the Asiatic Society of Mumbai is one of the oldest libraries in the city. It houses a vast collection of rare books, manuscripts, and ancient coins, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and researchers. The library is home to over 100,000 books, and its impressive collection includes a 16th-century Italian manuscript, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and several Oriental works in Persian, Arabic, and Sanskrit. Students can access resources like the Digital Library of India and the National Library and Information Services Infrastructure for Scholarly Content (N-LIST), making this library an essential destination for scholarly pursuits.
Address: Town Hall, Shahid Bhagat Singh Rd, Fort, Mumbai – 400023
David Sassoon Library
Established in 1847, the David Sassoon Library is a prominent landmark in the Fort area of Mumbai. Named after the philanthropist David Sassoon, this library is a prime example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The library’s collection includes over 40,000 books, periodicals, and newspapers. The library provides a serene reading environment, and the lush garden on its premises offers a breath of fresh air for students to recharge and relax between study sessions.
Address: 152, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Off David Sassoon, Library Marg, opposite Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai – 400001
Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute Library
The Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) library was established in 1887 and is one of the oldest technical libraries in India. It primarily serves the students and faculty of VJTI, but students from other institutions can also access its resources for research purposes. The library boasts a collection of over 1,25,000 books, 200 print journals, and e-journals across various branches of engineering, technology, and applied sciences. It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including an e-library, online databases, and a digital repository.
Address: Matunga East, Mumbai – 400031
Tata Institute of Social Sciences Library
The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) library is a vital resource centre for students pursuing social work, social sciences, and humanities. Established in 1936, the library has a vast collection of over 1,50,000 books, journals, reports, and government publications. The library offers access to various e-resources, including e-books, e-journals, and databases like JSTOR, Project MUSE, and ProQuest. It also houses a special collection on social work, social policy, and social development issues in India.
Address: Opp Deonar Bus depo, VN Purav Marg, Deonar, Mumbai – 400088
Also Read: A Guide to Choosing the Right ICSE School in Mumbai
SNDT Women’s University Library
The SNDT Women’s University Library, established in 1916, is one of the oldest libraries in Mumbai dedicated to women’s education. The library’s collection consists of over 2,00,000 books, journals, theses, and dissertations across multiple disciplines. The library also offers access to online databases, e-books, and e-journals, catering to the diverse needs of its students. With its aesthetically pleasing reading rooms and modern facilities, the SNDT library creates an ideal environment for learning and research.
University of Mumbai Library
The University of Mumbai, one of India’s premier educational institutions, houses a library that is a treasure trove of knowledge for students. The library’s collection comprises over 8,00,000 books, 1,200 print journals, and access to numerous e-resources. The library has separate sections for arts, commerce, science, engineering, law, and management. It also houses a Braille library for visually impaired students, making it one of the most inclusive libraries in the city.
Also Read: How to choose right CBSE school in Mumbai
American Library, Mumbai
The American Library, located at the American Consulate, is another valuable resource for students in Mumbai. Established in 1945, it offers a diverse collection of over 12,000 books, periodicals, and digital resources related to American history, literature, culture, and politics. The library also provides access to e-resources like JSTOR, eLibraryUSA, and American English resources. The American Library regularly organises events, workshops, and talks to engage students and promote cultural exchange.
Address: US CONSULATE GENERAL, G Block BKC, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai – 400051
The People’s Free Reading Room and Library
The People’s Free Reading Room and Library is a historic library founded in 1845 by Dr. Bhau Daji Lad. Located in the heart of Mumbai’s bustling business district, it offers a quiet sanctuary for students looking to escape the city’s noise and chaos. The library houses a collection of over 50,000 books, newspapers, and periodicals, catering to various interests and academic disciplines. The library also has a separate reference section, which provides access to encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and other reference materials.
Address: WRVH+FCH, J.S.S. Road, Opp Metro Inox Cinemas, Dhobitalao, Sonapur, Marine Lines, Mumbai – 400002
The British Council Library
The British Council Library in Mumbai is a prominent library for those interested in British culture, education, and literature. It offers a wide range of resources, including books, e-books, audiobooks, DVDs, and CDs, in various genres such as literature, arts, science, and technology. The library also provides access to over 100 international magazines and newspapers. It regularly organises events and workshops for students, ranging from creative writing sessions to film screenings and book discussions.
Address: 901, 9th Floor, Tower 1 One Indiabulls Centre, 841, Senapati Bapat Marg, Mumbai – 400013
Online Library Service – Librarywala
Librarywala is an online library service based in Mumbai, India, that provides access to a wide range of books for readers of all ages, including children. The service offers a subscription-based model where members can borrow books for a specified duration and have them delivered to their doorstep. Librarywala often tailors its offerings to cater specifically to the needs and interests of young readers, offering a selection of age-appropriate books and materials.
Mumbai’s libraries provide a wealth of resources and facilities for students to explore, learn, and grow. Visiting and utilising these libraries not only helps in enhancing one’s knowledge but also introduces students to a world of diverse perspectives and ideas.
As one of the best schools in Mumbai, EuroSchool boasts a vibrant library, offering a vast array of books across genres and subjects. Check out the EuroSchool admission process today.
students’ learning experiences. With a diverse collection of books, our schools in Mumbai serve as knowledge hubs that encourage independent learning. EuroSchool encourages students to utilise these resources, understanding that libraries not only supplement classroom education but also foster a lifelong love for reading and learning. Check out Our EuroSchool campuses in Thane and Navi Mumbai
