Amaravati set for world-class State Central Library

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh government is set to launch another landmark infrastructure project in the capital city with the construction of a State Central Library at an estimated cost of ₹150 crore. Envisioned as far more than a conventional library, the facility is being designed as an international-standard knowledge, research and cultural hub that will serve students, researchers, academicians and the public alike.

The government is expected to lay the foundation stone for the project later this month. Of the total project cost, Rs 100 crore will be contributed by the Dubai-based Sobha Group, while the remaining Rs 50 crore will be mobilised through CSR contributions and other donors. The state government will bridge any funding gap if required. Officials aim to complete construction within 24 months of commencement.

The Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) has earmarked 19.60 acres near the National Institute of Design (NID) campus for the project. The same campus will also house the Telugu Cultural Centre and the Human Resource Development Institute, creating an integrated knowledge and cultural precinct.

Spread across three lakh square feet, the G+5 library building will accommodate 2,500 readers simultaneously, making it one of the country’s largest libraries in terms of seating capacity. More than one million books covering literature, science, technology, medicine, law, history, competitive examinations and research will be available. Extensive digital collections, e-library services and online information resources will complement the physical collection.

Dedicated reading zones will be created for students, scholars and researchers, along with a specialised resource centre for competitive examination aspirants. A children’s library, digital learning facilities and a conservation centre for rare books and manuscripts are also part of the master plan.

The library will additionally feature knowledge spaces, creative and community zones, conference halls, seminar facilities, an auditorium and exhibition galleries, enabling it to host literary festivals, academic conferences, research events and cultural programmes.

Architecturally, the structure will reflect Andhra Pradesh’s heritage through 108 Ayaka-inspired pillars and stairways modelled after the iconic Undavalli Caves. Once completed, the State Central Library is expected to emerge as one of Amaravati’s signature landmarks and a premier knowledge destination, reinforcing the capital’s vision as a hub for education, innovation and culture.