The Goa State Central Library, also known as Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library, is the oldest and largest public library in the Indian state of Goa. It hosts a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and periodicals in various languages and is dedicated to preserving Goan history, culture, and literature.
The Goa State Central Library is located in the city of Panaji (Panjim), which is the capital of the North Goa district in Goa, India. It is situated in the Patto Plaza area, near the Ourem Creek.
Visiting hours can vary, but the library is typically open from Monday to Saturday, with timings usually set between 8:30 am and 7:30 pm. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. However, visitors are encouraged to check the latest timings before planning their visit.
The Goa State Central Library is a public library and is generally free to enter for reading and reference purposes. However, non-members may not have borrowing privileges, and some services or special exhibitions may carry a fee.
Guided tours are not a routine offering at the Goa State Central Library. However, tourists interested in learning more about the library can contact the library staff in advance to inquire if any special arrangements can be made for educational purposes.
Tourists can explore a wide variety of resources at the Goa State Central Library, including books, magazines, newspapers, maps, photographs, and manuscripts related to Goa's history and culture. There are also reading rooms and computer facilities. Some exhibitions or events highlighting Goan heritage might be of interest to cultural enthusiasts.
Photography rules can vary; in some libraries, photography may be restricted or forbidden to protect the materials. Visitors should ask the library staff for permission before taking photographs to respect the library's policies and ensure the preservation of the collection.
While the library is primarily an educational resource, it can be an attraction for researchers and tourists interested in Goan culture and history. The heritage section, special collections, or periodic exhibitions could offer intriguing insights for cultural tourists.
International tourists will find that library staff can communicate in English, and many signs and labels within the library are also in English. There are resources available in foreign languages, which can offer an interesting perspective for international visitors.
Those interested in adding an educational or cultural component to their Goa trip can schedule a visit to the Goa State Central Library. It can be a place to relax, read, and learn more about the region’s rich history and heritage, ideally combined with visits to other historical sites and cultural attractions in Panaji.
