From Our Correspondent
Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government is set to launch another landmark public infrastructure project in Amaravati this month with the construction of a ₹150-crore State Central Library, envisioned as a world-class knowledge and cultural hub rather than just a conventional library.
The project will come up on a 19.60-acre site near the National Institute of Design (NID) campus in Amaravati. The same campus will also house the Telugu Cultural Centre and the Human Resource Development Institute.
Sobha Group to fund major portion
Dubai-based real estate major Sobha Group has committed ₹100 crore towards the project. The remaining ₹50 crore will be mobilised through contributions from other donors and companies under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. If additional funds are required, the Andhra Pradesh government will provide financial support.
The government aims to complete the project within 24 months.
Designed as a global knowledge hub
The State Central Library has been conceived as one of India’s largest and most modern public libraries. Designed to reflect Andhra Pradesh’s history, culture and architectural heritage, the building will combine contemporary design with traditional elements inspired by the state’s rich legacy.
The library will be built over 300,000 square feet with a G+5 structure and will house more than one million books catering to readers across age groups and disciplines.
It will provide seating for 2,500 readers, making it one of the largest libraries in the country in terms of seating capacity.
Facilities for students, researchers and children
Apart from conventional reading halls, the library will feature dedicated spaces for students, researchers and general readers. A separate children’s library will also be established.
The facility will offer digital and e-library services, enabling access to electronic books, journals and research resources.
The library will also include a repository for preserving rare books and manuscripts and serve as a resource centre for students preparing for competitive examinations.
Other planned facilities include:
- Knowledge and innovation spaces
- Community and creative spaces
- Open learning areas
- Conference and seminar halls
- Auditorium
- Exhibition galleries
Architecture inspired by Andhra’s heritage
One of the project’s distinctive features is its architecture. The building will have 108 pillars, inspired by the Ayaka pillars of ancient Buddhist stupas, with each pillar showcasing elements of Andhra Pradesh’s history and culture.
The internal stairways will draw inspiration from the historic Undavalli Caves, blending heritage with modern functionality.
The State Central Library is expected to become one of Amaravati’s signature public institutions, reinforcing the capital city’s vision of combining administrative, educational and cultural infrastructure while creating a destination for learning, research and public engagement.