Established in 1965, the Library of Periyar Arts College has undergone significant transformations to meet the educational needs of its students and faculty. Initially housed in a modest room within C block, the library's capacity and resources expanded with the construction of a dedicated building in 1989. This development marked a pivotal moment in the library's history, facilitating a more organized and enriched environment for learning.
In 2012, the Tamil Nadu Government further recognized the library's essential role in academia by funding the construction of a new double-storied facility, equipped with modern amenities. This forward-thinking infrastructure included ten personal computers and a Wi-Fi network, granting students free internet access to enhance their research capabilities. Unfortunately, in 2018, the library faced significant challenges due to the Ghaja Cyclone, which disrupted internet services and adversely affected its operations.
Despite such setbacks, the library remains a critical resource, boasting a collection of 57,758 books that cater to various academic disciplines. Daily, students and staff engage with current affairs through newspapers such as Dhinamani, Hindu, and Indian Express, fostering a culture of reading that is vital for developing critical thinking and expansive knowledge.
The borrowing system is user-friendly; students simply present their ID cards to borrow subject-related books, which must be returned within 15 days. Additionally, the library offers an array of general knowledge books essential for competitive examinations, further supporting student preparedness for future challenges.
The allocation of funds for acquiring new books demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Directorate of Collegiate Education to enhance the library’s collection. During council meetings, budgets are equitably distributed among departments, with the Heads of Departments ordering necessary titles through established protocols. The efficient management of materials is evident from the meticulous maintenance of accession, stock, and issue registers by the Librarian.Furthermore, each academic department benefits from its own library, receiving newly purchased books after proper documentation. This decentralization ensures that both staff and students utilize resources tailored to their specific fields of study effectively.
In summary, the Library of Periyar Arts College serves as a cornerstone of academic success, evolving in response to both technological advancements and the educational demands of its community. Its rich collection, coupled with modern facilities, ensures that the library remains a vibrant hub of knowledge and learning well into the future.
The implementation of the bar-code system for accession maintenance marks a significant advancement in our library's operations. This innovative approach facilitates the efficient retrieval of books, serving as an essential ready reference while also enabling accurate tracking of their availability. By streamlining these processes, we enhance the overall patron experience and improve our inventory management.
