Libraries are treasures that should be cherished in every society. They are the embodiment of the human spirit and a place of peace. In this modern digital era, everyone surely needs a break from their screens. Every bookworm dreams of sitting in a library (permanently?) and reading for hours, without keeping a track of time. There are some of the most beautiful libraries in our country right here in Mumbai. So, if you are new to Mumbai and are looking for reading spots, here are some of The Bombay Circle Press’ favourite public libraries of Mumbai.
Located in the Fort, this 200-year-old public library houses a collection of rare print materials and journals. It also contains a lot of Marathi Literature, which you may not find anywhere else. Its beautiful architecture is mesmerizing and you might need to visit here multiple times, just like us, because we couldn’t stop admiring its old aesthetic.
Mumbai University Library, Fort
A beautiful gothic building houses this library, where you would feel like you are sitting in a Hogwarts Castle. You can get a library card as a non-student too (nominal fee), without which you cannot enter the library or enjoy its resources. Also two centuries old, it provides a lot of reference materials for the students in diverse educational fields. It also has a large collection of foreign language literary works. University of Mumbai also has another library, located in their main campus in Kalina.
This library is specially dedicated to Marathi Literature, for adults and kids both. Known as MCubed, it even has a literature festival of its own! You can also just enjoy the special reading room with a nominal fee, or become a member to borrow books. It was founded in 1981 and has been one of the most locally loved libraries of Mumbai.
Founded in 1856 by students of Elphinstone college, it was merely a rented hall in the beginning. In 1895, Bai Dinbai Nesserwanjee Petit, dedicated a huge sum of money for a proper library to be built in memory of her son, late Mr. Jamsetjee Nesserwanjee Petit. Late Mr. Petit was a director of the library, a lifetime member and was highly dedicated to the cause. Till date, the library houses literary pieces from Petit’s personal collection. Membership for this library is open to the residents of Mumbai, at a minimal membership fee.
The People’s Free Reading Room, Marine Line
A library with a huge collection of all sorts of literary pieces, even containing magazines and newspapers from the bygone era, it is also two-centuries old! Situated in Marine Lines, it is open on all days of the week. Students can use the resources for a very small fee, and other citizens can also acquire a lifetime membership. The beautiful old architecture of the library will leave you in awe and inspire you to dive into the literary world.
These libraries of Mumbai hold a special place in the local citizens’ hearts. Standing the true test of time, you should definitely visit them. If you liked reading this list, check out The Bombay Circle Press’ bulletin for more updates.