Libraries in Chennai
Anna Centenary Library
A nine-floor public library offering an extensive collection of books, digital resources, a braille section, and an auditorium for events.
Address: Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600025
Phone: 044-2220-1011
Website: http://www.annacentenarylibrary.org
Connemara Public Library
One of India’s four National Depository Libraries, housing every publication printed in the country and providing quiet reading halls and research assistance.
Address: Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008
Phone: 044-2819-3751
Website: http://www.connemarapubliclibrary.org/index.html
Roja Muthiah Research Library
A specialized research library focused on Tamil and South Indian studies, with rare manuscripts, regional newspapers, and oral history archives.
Address: Integrated Workshop Building, 3rd Cross Street, CIT Campus, Tharamani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600113
Phone: 044-2254-2551
Website: http://www.rmrl.in
Central Library, IIT Madras
A modern academic library offering STEM-focused collections, digital archives, and collaborative study spaces for students and researchers.
Address: Sharav Road, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600036
Phone: 044-2257-4951
Website: http://cenlib.iitm.ac.in
Anna University Central Library
A key resource for engineering and applied sciences, featuring a vast print and electronic collection, inter-library loans, and 24×7 digital access.
Address: Sardar Patel Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600025
Phone: (Not publicly listed)
Website: https://library.annauniv.edu
Easwari Lending Library
A membership-based lending library in Anna Nagar offering a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books in a community-oriented space.
Address: 70, 4th Street, W Block, Anna Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600040
Phone: 044-4261-2116
Website: http://easwarilibrary.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Libraries in Chennai
1. What are the major public libraries in Chennai?
Chennai’s leading public libraries include the Anna Centenary Library, Connemara Public Library, and Roja Muthiah Research Library—all offering extensive collections, reading halls, and special sections for children, digital media, or regional studies.
2. Do I need a membership to use public libraries?
Yes. Public libraries such as Anna Centenary and Connemara require a nominal annual membership fee. You must present a government-issued photo ID and proof of address to register.
3. How much does membership cost?
Membership fees vary by library:
- Anna Centenary Library: ₹100/year (general)
- Connemara Public Library: Free for Chennai residents; ₹250/year for non-residents
- Roja Muthiah Research Library: ₹500/year for access to archives
4. What are the operating hours?
Most public and academic libraries operate Monday–Saturday, typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Anna Centenary Library extends to 8:00 PM and remains open on Sundays.
5. Can I access digital resources remotely?
The Anna Centenary Library and major academic libraries (IIT Madras, Anna University) offer online catalogs and e-journals for registered members. Remote login credentials are provided upon membership approval.
6. Are there dedicated sections for children or special needs?
Yes. Anna Centenary Library has a dedicated children’s section and a braille library. Connemara Public Library offers a children’s reading room. IIT Madras Central Library provides accessible facilities for differently-abled users.
7. Can I reserve or renew books online?
Library management systems at Anna Centenary, IIT Madras, and Anna University allow registered members to search the catalog, reserve items, and renew loans via their websites.
8. What is the loan period and fine structure?
Loan periods and fines vary:
- Anna Centenary Library: 14 days loan; ₹2/day late fine
- IIT Madras Central Library: 7 days loan; ₹5/day late fine
- Connemara Public Library: Reference-only sections (no loans); regular stacks 14-day loan with ₹1/day fine
9. Can non-students use university libraries?
Generally, university libraries reserve membership for students, faculty, and staff. Some (IIT Madras) offer limited reference access or day passes to external researchers upon request.
10. Are library facilities air-conditioned and Wi-Fi enabled?
Yes. Anna Centenary, Connemara, and academic libraries (IIT Madras, Anna University) feature air-conditioned reading halls, free on-site Wi-Fi, and dedicated computer terminals.
11. Do libraries host events or workshops?
Anna Centenary and Connemara organize book launches, author talks, workshops, and cultural programs regularly. Roja Muthiah Research Library conducts seminars on Tamil studies and archival preservation.
12. How can I suggest a book purchase?
Most libraries provide a “suggestion box” or an online form where members can recommend titles. Purchase requests are reviewed by the acquisitions committee based on relevance and budget.
13. Are there inter-library loan services?
Anna Centenary and academic libraries offer inter-library loan (ILL) to source materials from partner institutions. Members must apply through the library help desk with valid membership credentials.
14. What IDs are required to borrow books?
A government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, or driver’s license) paired with the library membership card is mandatory for borrowing.
15. How do I report damage or loss of a book?
Notify the library circulation desk immediately. Members are typically liable for repair or replacement costs based on current market value and binding charges.
