About Us
The journey of Ratnagiri (District) Nagar Vachanalaya, one of the oldest public libraries in Maharashtra, spans nearly two centuries and reflects a rich legacy of knowledge, culture, and public service. The library was originally established in 1828 as the Konkan Book Society on a modest scale by the then British officer Mr. J. H. Trott. In 1850, the institution was renamed Native General Library, and it continued under this name until 1888. During this period, British officials wished to become members of the library. However, the word "Native" in its name created an obstacle to their membership. As a result, the word was removed, and the institution was renamed General Library, allowing British officials to join as members. While Veer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was interned in Ratnagiri, he frequently visited the library to satisfy his passion for reading. A strong advocate of the Marathi language, Savarkar suggested the pure Marathi name "Nagar Vachanalaya" (City Library), which was subsequently adopted. In 1951, the library was officially recognized as a District Library, and its name was changed to Ratnagiri (District) Nagar Vachanalaya. This name has remained in use ever since, symbolizing the institution's enduring commitment to promoting knowledge, education, and reading culture for generations.
1828
13/11/1952
RTN E/13
6406001
Rich and Glorious Legacy
The library provides a spacious and well-equipped Open Reading Section for its members and readers. The section offers comfortable seating, excellent lighting, subject-wise arrangement of books, and access to a wide range of newspapers and magazines. More than 100 readers make use of this facility every day.
The library houses a valuable collection of more than 3,000 rare books, including Bhashashastra by Narayan Bhavanrao Pavagi, Balchikitsasar by R. S. Lale, History of the Konkan by Alexander Kyd Nairne, published in 1894 as part of the Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency, Speeches on Questions of Public Policy by J. S. Bright, and Aishwaryavati Dnyaneshwari, edited by Babamaharaj Satarkar. The library's collection consists of more than 117,000 books. New books are selected primarily based on readers' interests, demand, and literary quality. The library ensures that newly published, high-quality books are made available within eight days of publication. It also gives priority to procuring books specifically requested by its readers. The library offers an extensive collection in Marathi, English, Hindi, and Sanskrit, including approximately 22,000 novels, 16,000 short story collections, 8,000 biographies, 3,000 plays, 2,000 reference books, 2,000 history books, and 6,000 children's books, providing a rich resource for readers of all ages and interests.
The library houses a remarkable collection of over 3,000 rare books, including notable works such as Bhashashastra by Narayan Bhavanrao Pavagi, Balchikitsasar by R. S. Lale, History of the Konkan by Alexander Kyd Nairne (published in 1894 as part of the Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency), Speeches on Questions of Public Policy by J. S. Bright, and Aishwaryavati Dnyaneshwari, edited by Babamaharaj Satarkar. The library's collection comprises more than 117,000 books. Book acquisitions are carefully selected based on readers' interests, demand, and literary quality. The library strives to make newly published, high-quality books available within eight days of publication. Special attention is given to ensuring that books requested by readers are made available as quickly as possible. The library offers an extensive collection in Marathi, English, Hindi, and Sanskrit, including approximately 22,000 novels, 16,000 short story collections, 8,000 biographies, 3,000 plays, 2,000 reference books, 2,000 history books, and 6,000 children's books, catering to readers of all ages and interests.
Ratnagiri (District) Nagar Vachanalaya has played a significant role in promoting Marathi literature by successfully organizing prestigious literary conferences. In 1990, the library hosted the 64th All India Marathi Literary Conference in Ratnagiri. Later, in 2016, it also successfully organized the 28th Swatantryaveer Savarkar Literary Conference, further strengthening its contribution to the literary and cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
Ratnagiri (District) Nagar Vachanalaya is the first computerized public library in Maharashtra. All library operations are managed through the library's in-house developed LIMS (Library Management System). The system efficiently handles all essential library functions, including book circulation, receipt generation, expense records, and financial documentation. The complete database of the library's book collection and members has been digitized, enabling readers to search for books using the accession number, title, author, publisher, subject, or other available details. This significantly reduces the time required to locate books and improves user convenience. In addition, computerized circulation and receipt management streamline daily operations, saving time and enhancing the overall efficiency of library services.
The library has developed an Android application named Ratnagiri Nagar Vachanalay to provide an Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) service. The app contains the complete library catalogue, allowing users to search for books by title, author, publisher, subject, publication year, or availability, making it easy to locate the required book while saving valuable time. The application is available free of charge on the Google Play Store. In addition to library members, anyone can download the app to browse the library's collection from anywhere. Readers can search for books before visiting the library and inform the staff in advance, enabling the requested books to be kept ready at the circulation desk. This enhances convenience and significantly reduces waiting time for readers.
Honorable Members of Our Executive Board
Ratnagiri (Jilha) Nagar Vachanalaya
Jaystambh, Khareghat Road, Ratnagiri - 415612, Maharashtra.
8275723721
rtnlibrary@rediffmail.com
Morning: 9:00 – 12:30 Evening: 3:30 – 7:30
