Library: A Learning Resource Center

The Maulana Azad Memorial Academy Library is a beacon of knowledge and learning in Lucknow, established in 1979 to honor the ideals of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. It serves as a vital resource for students, researchers, and the general public, offering a unique blend of historical significance and modern accessibility.

Introduction

As one of the pioneering learning centers in Lucknow, the library reflects Maulana Azad’s vision of education as a cornerstone of national development. Open to all, regardless of background, the library is dedicated to preserving and disseminating knowledge about the life, teachings, and contributions of Maulana Azad, India’s first Education Minister.

Azad’s efforts to shape India’s education system emphasized universal values, moral principles, and the importance of secular and scientific thought—principles that continue to inspire the library’s mission.

Collection Highlights

The library boasts an extensive and diverse collection of resources:

• Books: Over 3,400 books in English, Hindi, Urdu, and Arabic, including rare publications and approximately 1,500 gifted volumes.
• Rare Documents: Original copies of pre-independence journals, including Al-Hilal and Al-Balagh, founded by Maulana Azad to promote India’s nationalism.
• Magazines and Journals: Includes popular publications such as The Week, Tehelka, India Today, Outlook, and scholarly journals like Dalit Voice.
• Freedom Movement Archives: Photo albums and rare writings of freedom fighters, providing invaluable insights into India’s struggle for independence.
• Special Collections: Rare books and old journals focused on national integration, secularism, and the socio-economic issues of the time.
  

   

• Library Services

  The library offers a wide range of services to cater to its diverse user base:

  1. Book Lending: Members can borrow books for home study.
  2. Reading Room: A quiet space for reading and research, accessible to all visitors.
  3. Reference Services: Assistance with locating information, resources, and research materials.
  4. Documentation Center: A specialized section with classified newspaper clippings and journal articles on 25 different subjects.
  5. Research Facilities: Support for students and scholars conducting academic research.
  6. Digital Services: Internet browsing and email facilities to aid in modern research and connectivity.

Objectives of the Library

The library is guided by the following objectives:

• To bridge educational gaps in society, particularly for underprivileged communities.
• To foster a culture of learning and intellectual growth.
• To promote the teachings and values of Maulana Azad.
• To provide accessible knowledge resources for researchers and the public.

Future Vision

The library is continuously evolving to meet the needs of modern learners. Future plans include:

• Mobile Library Services: Bringing knowledge to the doorstep of rural communities through a mobile library system.
• Digitization: Transforming the library into a digital hub with subscriptions to e-journals and digital archives.
• Advanced Documentation: Expanding the documentation center to offer specialized services for researchers and academicians.