A. N. College, Patna

The Central Library at A.N. College, Patna stands as a cornerstone of academic excellence, offering a vast repository of knowledge with a collection of over 25,000 books spanning diverse disciplines. Established to support the intellectual growth of students and faculty, the library houses an extensive range of textbooks, reference materials, research journals, and rare manuscripts. Its collection covers subjects such as Science, Arts, Commerce, Social Sciences, and Literature, ensuring comprehensive academic support for all departments. With a strong emphasis on both traditional and digital learning, the library serves as a vital resource hub for the college community.

The library boasts a spacious reading hall with a seating capacity for over 200 students, providing a quiet and conducive environment for study and research. It is equipped with modern amenities, including computer terminals with internet access, enabling students to access e-books, e-journals, and online databases such as INFLIBNET, NDL, and JSTOR. The digital section offers scanned copies of rare books and thesis papers, while the periodical section provides access to leading national and international journals. Additionally, the library maintains a special collection of competitive exam books, catering to students preparing for UPSC, BPSC, NET, and other entrance tests.

Beyond its academic resources, the Central Library plays an active role in fostering a culture of reading and research. It regularly organizes book exhibitions, author talks, and workshops on research methodologies to encourage scholarly engagement. The library also follows an open-access system, allowing students to browse shelves freely, while a dedicated librarian and staff assist with book retrieval and reference queries. With its rich collection, digital facilities, and commitment to knowledge dissemination, the Central Library of A.N. College remains an indispensable asset for students and researchers in Patna, Bihar.

1. Physical Infrastructure:

• Spacious Reading Halls: Spread across 5,000 sq. ft. with seating for 300+ students.
• Modular Shelving System: Steel racks with 2.5 km of shelving space for 25,000+ books.
• Climate Control: Air-conditioned rare books section with humidity control.
• Special Collections Room: For preserving rare manuscripts and reference materials.
• Separate Faculty Research Zone: With 12 individual research carrels.

2. Digital Infrastructure:

• Computer Lab: 50 workstations with high-speed internet (100 Mbps leased line).
• Digital Library Section:
• 50 multimedia PCs with headphones
• Scanner and photocopying facilities
• Access to INFLIBNET, NDL, and other digital repositories
• RFID System: For automated book tracking and inventory management.
• OPAC Kiosks: 4 self-service terminals for catalog searching.

3. Support Facilities:

• Administrative Block::
• Librarian's office
• Processing room for new acquisitions
• Technical processing area for cataloging
• Book Bank: Separate section for textbook lending.
• Periodicals Section: Current magazines and newspapers display racks.
• Thesis/Dissertation Section: With bound volumes of student research.

4. Accessibility Features:

• Ramp access and elevator for differently-abled users.
• Braille books and screen reader software in computer lab.
• 24/7 CCTV surveillance and fire alarm system.
• Drinking water and restroom facilities within library premises.

5. Special Amenities:

• Discussion Rooms: 4 soundproof group study rooms.
• Photocopy Center: Managed by college cooperative society.
• After-hours Book Drop: For returning materials when closed.
• Display Boards: For new arrivals and academic announcements.

The library operates on KOHA integrated library management software and maintains backup power supply through 20KVA UPS and generator support. Future expansion plans include developing an institutional repository and adding more e-learning pods. This infrastructure enables the library to serve as the academic heart of the institution, supporting both traditional and digital learning needs.