Library Services

Lending Section

This section allows registered members to borrow books from the library. Members may borrow up to two books for a period of two weeks, excluding holidays.

The section houses nearly 70,119 fiction and nonfiction books in all three languages and serves 14,020 active members. All services are fully automated to ensure efficient service delivery.

Reference Section

This section provides valuable information on specific subjects and events. Library membership is not required; visitors need only present a National Identity Card or another acceptable form of identification.

It is especially useful for students pursuing higher education, researchers, scholars, and professionals. Photocopying services are also available.

Types of Reference Materials Available

• Encyclopedias, dictionaries, and yearbooks
• Directories, topographic maps, and local directories
• Special collections on Sri Lanka
• Rare books and manuscripts
• Law books and ordinances
• Indigenous medical (Ayurvedic) collections
• Palm-leaf manuscripts
• Information Technology resources
• Kandy City collections
• Environmental Science collections
• Newspaper articles on various subjects

Reading Section

This section provides daily local and international information. Readers can access daily and weekend newspapers in Sinhala, Tamil, and English.

Popular magazines, periodicals, government publications, NGO materials, and community information resources are also available.

Cataloguing Section

This section manages the technical operations of purchasing, acquisition, and cataloguing of all library materials.

All materials are catalogued using the Dewey Decimal Classification System, and bibliographic records are maintained in the library’s automation system.

Binding Section

The binding section plays a vital role in preserving library materials. Books are repaired and rebound before being distributed to sections and branch libraries.

Special attention is given to damaged books and rare collections to ensure long-term preservation.

Study Hall

The study hall provides a quiet and comfortable environment for students, higher education learners, and professionals. Users may bring their own books and study materials.

Mobile Library Section

Introduced in 2002 with a bus donated by the Lions Club, the mobile library delivers library services to areas with limited access.

Free services are provided to charitable institutions including elderly homes, special needs schools, and children’s homes. Discounted services are available to other institutions.

Braille Library

This section maintains a collection of Braille books, audiobooks, and CDs for visually impaired readers. Facilities are available for borrowing and listening.

It is the only active Braille library in the Central Province and also conducts extension programs to support visually impaired readers.

More information: www.kandybrailleblogspot.com

Indian Corner

Established in 2013 through a memorandum of understanding between the Kandy Municipal Council and the Assistant High Commissioner of India, this section focuses on Indian history, literature, culture, and socio-economic studies.

American Corner – Kandy

Established in 2005 in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, this section operates under six core pillars:

• Information about the United States
• Cultural programs
• Educational advising
• English language teaching and learning
• Alumni engagement
• Skill development

Programs include English language training, STEAM education, youth leadership development, and women’s entrepreneurship initiatives. All services are free and open to the public.

Opening Hours