Maharashtra Public Library Act

The Maharashtra Public Libraries Act, enacted in 1967 and brought into effect on May 1, 1968, provides a legislative framework for the establishment, maintenance, organization, and development of a comprehensive system of public libraries across the state of Maharashtra.

Unlike library laws in some other Indian states, the Act does not impose a library cess (tax); instead, it entrusts the state government with the primary responsibility of funding and administering the public library system.

Key Provisions of the Act

1. Administrative Structure

• State Library Council
  • Chaired by the Minister for Higher and Technical Education.
  • Functions as an advisory body to the state government on matters related to library development and governance.
  • The Director of Libraries serves as the Secretary of the Council.
• Department of Libraries
  • A dedicated department created under the Act.
  • Headed by the Director of Libraries, who oversees:
    • Administration and planning
    • Establishment and maintenance
    • Monitoring and development of public library services statewide
• District Library Committees
  • Constituted for each district.
  • Advise the state government on local library needs.
  • Supervise the functioning of district and lower-tier libraries.

2. Library Network

• Hierarchical Structure
  • The Act envisions a tiered system:
    • State Central Library (apex institution)
    • Divisional Libraries
    • District Libraries
    • Taluka (sub-district) Libraries
  • This structure ensures a coordinated, decentralized delivery of library services.
• Grants-in-Aid for Recognized Libraries
  • Public libraries managed by private bodies/trusts can receive financial support if recognized by the Department of Libraries.
  • Libraries are categorized as A, B, C, or D based on their facilities and operations, which determines the level of aid provided.
• Maharashtra State Library Service
  • A cadre of trained library professionals who manage and operate public libraries across the state.
  • Salaries and allowances are paid from the Consolidated Fund of Maharashtra, ensuring continuity and professionalism.

3. Financial Provisions

• Library Fund
  • A special fund created under the Act to support library operations and development.
  • Sources of income include:
    • A minimum annual contribution of ₹25 lakh from the state government
    • Special grants, donations, and public contributions
• No Library Cess
  • The Act does not authorize the levy of a library tax or cess, distinguishing it from other state legislation that may burden local bodies or residents with additional taxation.

4. Services and Functions

• Mandatory Library Establishment
  • The state government is empowered to establish public libraries in areas where:
    • Library services by local authorities or trusts are non-existent or unsatisfactory.
  • Ensures equitable access to information and knowledge resources.
• Free Library Services
  • All public libraries established under the Act are required to provide services free of charge to all citizens, regardless of:
    • Age, gender, religion, caste, or social background
• Resource and Collection Development
  • The Director of Libraries is tasked with:
    • Compiling an annual bibliography of books published within Maharashtra
    • Preserving rare and historical literature, contributing to the cultural and educational heritage of the state
• Training and Inspection
  • The Director may:
    • Conduct training programs in library science to enhance staff competency
    • Carry out inspections to ensure compliance with statutory provisions and maintain service standards