Dehiwala Public Library: A Pillar of Knowledge and Community
A Hub of Knowledge and Community Engagement
Libraries are an entry point for knowledge, self-improvement and community growth. Sri Lanka’s public libraries have been central to cultural sensitivity, education in general, in urban and semi-urban areas. Of all of them, the Dehiwala Central Library is a modern, user-friendly, resourceful public entity in one of the most urbanized hubs in the Western Province. Serving the heavily populated and diverse Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia district, the library is continually evolving to meet the educational, informational, and cultural needs of its constituents.
Overview and Historical Background
The Dehiwala Central Library operates under the administration of the Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia Municipal Council, which is mandated to develop and manage public services in the area. It was established with a mandate to make books and information freely accessible to every citizen, regardless of age, background, or economic level.
The background of the library dates a few decades, when Dehiwala began to grow rapidly as a residential and commercial suburb of Colombo. The municipal council felt the need for a properly equipped library to serve the growing population and constructed the Dehiwala Central Library as part of its initiative towards public welfare and education.
Currently, the library is one of the most organized and highly used libraries in the country.
Location and Accessibility
The Dehiwala Central Library is located in the heart of Dehiwala within accessible distance by road and public transport. Its central position close to schools, markets, religious centers, and government buildings allows it to attract a varied clientele of users including schoolchildren, students in universities, working professionals, and old people.
The library is open most weekdays and weekends to accommodate various individuals’ schedules and enable them to visit and utilize its services.
Library Architecture and Facilities
The architecture of Dehiwala Central Library is reflective of both functionality and contemporary style. It is a big, multi-story building with different sections for different user groups and facilities. It is well-maintained, well-lit, and serene ideal for reading, studying, or research.
Significant facilities include: Main lending and reference zones,Children’s library with colorful and interactive learning zones, Digital resource zone with computers and internet access,Study halls for individual and group study,Audiovisual zone, Lecture hall for seminars, workshops, and functions, Special needs accessibility with ramps and seating zones
These features make the library a safe and welcoming environment for all ages and abilities.
Book Collection and Resources
The collection is the most important asset of any library, and the Dehiwala Central Library has put together an extensive and diverse collection of media and books to cater to a wide range of readers. The library’s holdings consist of: Sinhala, Tamil, and English literature and fiction,University and school textbooks and study materials, Reference materials such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks, Religious texts that mirror the religious diversity of Sri Lanka, Books on history, science, arts, and politics
Periodicals and newspapers local, national, and international
The library adds to its collection on a regular basis, purchasing new publications, recommended reading books for exams, and member-recommended books. There is also a local collection of books by Sri Lankan authors and books related to the history and culture of the Dehiwala region.
Children’s Section and Educational Support
The most crucial section of the library is its children’s section, which plays a central role in literacy and early childhood learning. Meant to be active and vibrant, this section comprises: Picture books and storybooks,Learning puzzles and games, Children’s and parents’ reading nooks, Interactive storytelling sessions
The library works in cooperation with local schools in providing support to reading schemes and holds regular activities such as drawing, writing, and quiz competitions. Such activities provide confidence and stimulate creativity among young readers and also generate the reading habit.
For older students who are taking the G.C.E. O/L and A/L exams, past papers, revision materials, and textbooks are available in the library. Quiet study space and reference facilities promote academic success and equal access to learning resources.
Digital and Multimedia Services
With Sri Lanka evolving into a digital country, the Dehiwala Central Library too has come on board with technology in services. Members have the privilege of:
Free internet and Wi-Fi accessibility,Computer terminals for browsing, research, and searching
Access to electronic materials like e-books and educational software,Media rooms where users can view documentaries, films, and presentations, Digital literacy training for new users and seniors
These services not only offer more interactive learning but also help to close the digital divide by offering resources to those who might not have access to them at home.
Community Programs and Cultural Activities
In addition to its main function as a library, the Dehiwala Central Library also serves as a community center that encourages civic and cultural participation. The library regularly conducts events and activities such as: Author talks and book launches, Language and writing workshops, Public lectures on social issues, health, and education, Art exhibitions and poetry recitals, Environmental awareness and volunteer work.
Such activities work towards developing a community, enable dialogue, and act as a platform for regional talent. It also collaborates with NGOs, schools, and universities to send outreach programs that extend its learning services beyond the confines of the building.
Enhancing Inclusion and Literacy
An impressive feature of the Dehiwala Central Library is that it highlights equality of access and inclusion. Everyone has access through membership as citizens of this country. Materials in the three official languages Sinhala, Tamil, and English are offered to cater to people. There is service available to: Elderly, who are comfortable with quiet sections and big-lettered books, Housewives and women, who get trained and reading-club activities, Handicapped readers, wheelchair accommodation as well as trained assistant staff.
By promoting inclusivity, the library opens up its services to everyone within the community.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite its success, Dehiwala Central Library has also faced various challenges, which are: Budgetary restraints on the acquisition of new books and upgrading infrastructure Deficiency of trained staff in modern library science and IT Change in reading habits by young adults because of social media and cell phones Lack of space during times of high demand during academic periods To address such issues, the future plans may include: Stepping up online services and mobile library units Having a library app for book tracing and digital borrowing Enhancing school and donor partnerships
Organizing more community events to stay in the limelight
With the constant support of the municipal council and the public, the Dehiwala Central Library can continue to develop and keep pace with evolving needs.
The Dehiwala Central Library is a perfect example of the role public libraries can play in empowering communities by providing access to knowledge, culture, and technology. It assists in the formation of an educated and informed society by serving students, families, professionals, and lifelong learners.
Open Hours
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Email Address: info@dmmc.lk
Website: http://dmmc.lk/library-service
Phone: +94112712782
Map Of Dehiwala Public Library
