Overview
Library Classification Systems
Academic Libraries
Public Libraries
Commercial Libraries
Special Libraries
Bookstores
Internet Cafés
Public libraries play different roles in India than in America. American libraries tend to collect popular and fiction, alongside reference and educational materials. Many people visit public libraries to borrow books or audio-visual materials for entertainment. Indian public libraries often focus on providing professional development and other materials related to self-education. Indians may spend a lot of time at the public library while preparing for a career change or learning a new skill. Public libraries frequently choose to have very small collections of fiction, or do away with the collection entirely. When people in India want to check out books, music, or films for leisure, they often join a commercial library instead.
Indian public libraries generally allow users to find materials on their own. If you walk among the shelves in a public library, you may have to ask a librarian for help with finding what you want. Many public libraries in India develop their own classification systems, which can be a challenge to interpret.
Finding a Public Library:
Libraries in India: The Indian government maintains a list of links to library networks and virtual libraries across India . Note that the lists are not comprehensive; if you do not find a suitable library through Libraries in India , you may want to try the online Yellow Pages below.
Yellow Pages, via webindia123.com: Search the Yellow Pages online to find addresses and telephone numbers for public and commercial libraries. Click on your city's name, then select "libraries" in the categories menu. You can also find bookstores this way.
