State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall
1 / 10

State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall

4.5
·1k reviews·Bengaluru, India

A stunning red historic library in Cubbon Park, offering a serene escape with a vast collection of books.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for study

CrowdLow
Loading map...
State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall

State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for study

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning red historic library in Cubbon Park, offering a serene escape with a vast collection of books.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful red building nestled inside Cubbon Park, perfect for book lovers and history buffs."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry, Borrowing Fee

Entry is free for all! Membership needed to borrow books. :admission_tickets:

Quiet Zone Essential

Maintain absolute silence for a peaceful experience. :speakerwiththreesoundwaves:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Red Building

The Iconic Red Building

Cubbon Park

A stunning historic red structure, a visual delight for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

The Serene Reading Rooms

The Serene Reading Rooms

Interior

Find your peaceful nook amidst expansive halls filled with a diverse collection of books.

Cubbon Park's Green Embrace

Cubbon Park's Green Embrace

Surrounding Park

Nestled within lush greenery, offering a tranquil escape and a refreshing ambiance for visitors.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Quiet

This historic library is a sanctuary for quiet contemplation. While entry is free, a membership is required to borrow books. Plan for a peaceful visit to soak in the serene atmosphere and impressive architecture.

Bookworm's Paradise

Discover a vast collection, though many books are in Kannada. English and Hindi titles are available, covering diverse subjects. It's a perfect spot for study or leisurely reading amidst lush greenery.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for study
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Students thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Guess this place in Bangalore

Free Entry, Borrowing Fee

Entry is free for all! Membership needed to borrow books. :admission_tickets:

Quiet Zone Essential

Maintain absolute silence for a peaceful experience. :speakerwiththreesoundwaves:

reddit.com

Need info on State Central Library

reddit.com

Cubbon park library

Laptop Friendly

Laptops are allowed, perfect for students and researchers. :computer:

Book Collection Variety

Diverse collection, but many books are in Kannada. :books:

reddit.com

has anyone been to the state central library near cubbon park

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry, Borrowing Fee

Entry is free for all! Membership needed to borrow books. :admission_tickets:

Quiet Zone Essential

Maintain absolute silence for a peaceful experience. :speakerwiththreesoundwaves:

Laptop Friendly

Laptops are allowed, perfect for students and researchers. :computer:

Book Collection Variety

Diverse collection, but many books are in Kannada. :books:

Study Haven

Ample space and quiet ambiance make it great for studying. :mortar_board:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the State Central Library's beautiful red architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful haven for reading and study. While the collection is vast, some wish for more English titles. Despite minor maintenance suggestions, its charm and tranquility are consistently praised.

"This library is aesthetically beautiful and thoughtfully arranged. While I’m not an avid reader, I’ve spent many peaceful hours here, especially during my early days in Bangalore. The atmosphere is serene and silent—perfect for reading or simply spending some quiet time. The racks are well-organized, and the overall maintenance of the space is truly commendable. Even for someone who isn't deeply into books, this place has a special charm that draws you in. A wonderful spot for anyone seeking tranquility and a love for well-kept spaces."

alexjoyluke

"Good ambience to study ample collection of books, but the collection could be improved because most of the books are in Kannada. It could also be in English.
Library is really very spacious and you can find a peaceful spot to study for a whole day clean washrooms. You can find all kind of books over there. Even the rare rest, oldest books. Subjects like history, science and lot of other books."

Khushboo Verma

"A beautiful red building nestled inside Cubbon Park, perfect for book lovers and history buffs. The architecture is stunning, and the library has a huge collection of books, including rare and old ones. Peaceful spot to read or just enjoy the surroundings. A gem for readers and architecture lovers. The library is spacious, peaceful, and surrounded by greenery perfect escape from the city buzz.
Historic and serene. The bright red structure and calm surroundings make it a great place to relax, read, or take a quiet walk."

sahil iqubal

What People Like

Beautiful red architecture
Peaceful and serene ambiance
Vast book collection

What People Dislike

More English books needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The library is located within Cubbon Park, a central landmark in Bangalore. You can reach it via public transport like buses or metro to nearby stations, followed by a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing apps. Reddit

Limited parking is available within Cubbon Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's often easier to rely on public transport or drop-off services. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great option as Cubbon Park is accessible and bike-friendly. There are usually places to park bicycles within the park premises. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is free for everyone. You can walk in and enjoy the ambiance and browse the collections. Reddit

To borrow books, you'll need to become a member of the library. The process typically involves filling out a form and paying a nominal membership fee. Reddit

The library is generally open from morning to evening on weekdays and Saturdays. It's advisable to check the official timings as they might vary or change seasonally. Reddit

There is no specific age limit for entry, making it accessible for all ages. However, the quiet environment is best suited for those who can maintain silence. Reddit

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

The library offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for reading, studying, or quiet contemplation. It's known for its silence and well-maintained interiors. Reddit

Yes, laptops are permitted inside the library, making it a popular spot for students and researchers to work. Reddit

The library is quite spacious, and you can find many quiet spots across its floors suitable for studying. Many visitors report finding peaceful areas easily. Reddit

The library boasts a vast collection, including rare and old books, covering subjects like history, science, philosophy, and literature. While many are in Kannada, there are also English and Hindi titles. Reddit

While the historic nature of the building might present some challenges, efforts are usually made to ensure accessibility. It's best to inquire directly about specific facilities if needed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography inside the library might be restricted to preserve the quiet atmosphere and protect the books. It's always best to check for signage or ask a librarian before taking pictures. Reddit

The striking red architecture of the building itself is a prime subject. The surrounding greenery of Cubbon Park also offers beautiful backdrops, especially during the day. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The State Central Library offers a unique experience for families looking for a quiet outing. While it's primarily a place for study and reading, children can enjoy exploring the vast collection of books, especially if they are comfortable with Kannada literature. The serene environment encourages a sense of calm, which can be a good lesson for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. While there aren't specific children's activity areas, the sheer scale of the library and its beautiful architecture can be captivating. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the joy of reading in a historic and peaceful setting. Remember to emphasize the importance of maintaining silence to respect other patrons. Reddit

📚 Avid Readers & Researchers

For avid readers and researchers, the State Central Library is a treasure trove. The extensive collection, including rare and old books, offers ample material for in-depth study. The peaceful ambiance and dedicated study spaces make it an ideal environment for extended research sessions or simply getting lost in a good book. Reddit

Make sure to check the membership process if you plan to borrow books for longer periods. The library's location within Cubbon Park also provides a refreshing break between study sessions, allowing you to recharge amidst nature. Many visitors find the quietude conducive to deep concentration and productivity. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is a photographer's delight, primarily for its stunning red architecture. The building's unique design and its picturesque setting within Cubbon Park offer numerous opportunities for captivating shots. The contrast between the vibrant red facade and the lush greenery is particularly striking. Reddit

While interior photography might be restricted, the exterior views are plentiful. Capture the building from different angles, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. The surrounding park also provides a beautiful natural frame for the library. Remember to be respectful of the library's purpose and avoid disruptive photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Gem and Historical Significance

The State Central Library Sir Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is not just a repository of books but a significant architectural landmark in Bangalore. Housed in a striking red building, its design is a testament to historical architectural styles, making it a visual delight. The library's location within the expansive Cubbon Park further enhances its appeal, offering a tranquil setting amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors often praise the building's aesthetic beauty and its integration with the natural surroundings. Reddit

The library's history is intertwined with the development of Bangalore as a cultural hub. It serves as a quiet sanctuary for learning and reflection, attracting students, researchers, and casual readers alike. The serene ambiance and the well-maintained interiors contribute to its reputation as a peaceful escape. Even for those not deeply engrossed in reading, the sheer charm of the place and its historical significance make it a worthwhile visit. Reddit

While the library is celebrated for its beauty and peacefulness, some reviews mention that the collection could be expanded with more English titles, as a significant portion is in Kannada. Nevertheless, the presence of rare and old books across various subjects adds to its unique value. Reddit

A Reader's Haven: Collections and Atmosphere

The State Central Library is a dream for book lovers, boasting an ample collection that spans various genres and subjects. From fiction and history to science and philosophy, there's something for every curious mind. While many of the books are in Kannada, the library also offers a good selection of titles in English and Hindi, catering to a wider audience. Reddit

What truly sets this library apart is its incredibly peaceful atmosphere. Visitors consistently highlight the silence and the serene environment, making it an ideal spot for focused study or quiet reading. The spacious halls and well-organized shelves contribute to a sense of calm and order. Many students and researchers find it to be a perfect place to spend hours engrossed in their work, away from distractions. Reddit

Beyond its literary offerings, the library's setting within Cubbon Park adds to its charm. The surrounding greenery provides a refreshing backdrop, and the building's distinctive red facade is a photographer's delight. It's a place where one can easily lose track of time, immersed in both the world of books and the tranquility of nature. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2