Delhi Assembly to modernise library into digitally-driven knowledge hub

Delhi Legislative Assembly has announced a comprehensive modernisation of its library, following the submission of a detailed feasibility and action report by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The initiative, spearheaded by Speaker Vijender Gupta, is set to transform the library into a state-of-the-art e-library, archives, and museum—a landmark step in the capital’s digital transformation.

Chairing a high-level meeting on the subject, Speaker Gupta emphasised the importance of strengthening legislative research, public accessibility and digital inclusion.

He announced plans to rename the facility as the “Delhi Legislative Assembly Library, Archives and Museum”, expanding its role beyond a traditional library into a dynamic research and heritage centre.

The IGNCA report lays out a phased roadmap covering staffing, infrastructure, and digital services. Recommendations include appointing a senior library consultant, an ALIO, two library attendants, and engaging Library and Information Science (LIS) trainees. Pay scale revisions and post upgrades have also been prioritised within a three-month window.

The library infrastructure will undergo a complete renovation, featuring modern furniture, compact shelving, museum-style archival displays, and termite protection. These upgrades will be executed by the Public Works Department (PWD) through a transparent RFP process. Digitally, the library will integrate advanced systems such as Koha Library Management Software (LMS), a dedicated library portal and a DSpace-based digital repository.

It will also join DELNET and subscribe to leading digital content platforms like Press Reader and Magzter, offering access to national and international publications.

Key archival resources will be digitised using OCR-enabled formats, enhancing preservation and searchability.

The website will receive a major upgrade, and OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) terminals and new computers will be installed to ensure ease of navigation and public use. Collaborations with institutions like the Parliament Library and the British Library are also being pursued to source rare materials and best practices.

To ensure timely implementation, a project monitoring committee will oversee progress, with dedicated budgetary provisions already being planned.