 |
| State Central Library,Thiruvananthapuram victorianweb.org |
 |
| State Central Library,Thiruvananthapuram tripadvisor.in |
Above image: The present State Central Library (completec in 1900), originally called the Victoria Diamond Jubilee Library (in honor of Queen Victoria), at Palayam, Trivandrum,it was built during the reign of Sri Moolam Thirunal. One of the oldest book houses in the country, it has finest collections of rare books starting from 16th century.The collection itself was established back in 1829 by the then Maharajah of Travancore.In 2017,the state government had a plan to add the Braille wing, etc., to help make visually impaired visitors comfortable.
 |
| Central Library,Thiruvananthapuram newindianexpress.com |
The 196 year old State Central Library at Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram—originally the Victoria Diamond Jubilee Library—is one of the most architecturally striking and historically significant libraries in India. Completed in 1900, the building is a fine example of the unique Trivandrum-Gothic style, recognizable by its bold red-brick exterior contrasted with white stone detailing. This style, also seen in the Napier Museum and the Victoria Town Hall, blends European Gothic elements with Travancore’s local aesthetic traditions, creating structures that are visually dramatic yet harmoniously integrated with Kerala’s tropical landscape. The task of organising the library was entrusted with Col Edward Cadogan, the then British Resident and the grand son of Sir Hans Sloan, the founder of British Museum.
The façade of the library features pointed arches, corbelled windows, decorative pilasters, and high gables, all contributing to its majestic presence. Viewed from either side, the building’s symmetry, steeply pitched roofs, and textured brickwork highlight the craftsmanship of a period when public architecture was designed not only for utility but as a symbol of cultural pride. Inside, the spacious entrance hall sets the tone for quiet scholarship. A broad wooden staircase with a beautifully carved balustrade leads to the large first-floor reference hall, reflecting the care given to interior detailing. Even today, visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering, a tradition that emphasizes respect for knowledge.
The origins of the library date back to 1829, making it one of the oldest institutional libraries in India. It was founded by the Maharajah of Travancore and organized by Colonel Edward Cadogan, grandson of Sir Hans Sloane, the founder of the British Museum. Initially restricted to a privileged class, the library became a public institution in 1898, when it was shifted to this purpose-built structure as part of the memorials marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
Over time the library’s role expanded significantly. It came under the University of Travancore in 1938, the State Government in 1948, and was officially renamed the State Central Library in 1958. Today it functions under the Higher Education Department. The statue of renowned Malayalam poet and scholar Ulloor S. Parameswara Iyer in its grounds reinforces its cultural mission.
Architecturally magnificent and historically rich, the State Central Library remains a beacon of Kerala’s commitment to learning, preservation of knowledge, and public access to literature.
https://victorianweb.org/victorian/history/empire/india/trivandrum/6.html
