Navi Mumbai’s upcoming central library in Sanpada, built for Rs 28.62 crore, has reached around 80% completion and is expected to be opened to the public within the next four months, according to officials. The project is being developed by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation on a CIDCO-owned plot in Sector-11 and is set to serve as a major academic and cultural facility for the city.
City Engineer Shirish Aradwad said that construction work is in its final phase and progress is on track for timely commissioning. The facility, proposed to be inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, is situated on Plot No. 1, covering an area of 1,770.73 sq m. It is designed primarily to support students preparing for competitive examinations, along with general readers and knowledge seekers.
Officials stated that the library has been conceptualised after studying global library models, with emphasis on modern software systems, curated collections, and activity-oriented spaces. The architectural design has also been inspired by international standards to create a visually distinctive and user-friendly environment that encourages reading and long engagement.
The structure will include a basement, ground floor, and four upper floors, integrating both physical and digital learning infrastructure. Facilities will comprise an e-library, audiobooks, a language laboratory, an exhibition showcasing the evolution of books, and an auditorium with seating capacity for 130 people. A dedicated Braille section will be provided for visually impaired users, with multilingual resources available in Marathi, Hindi, English and other languages.
Inclusive access has been prioritised, with multiple viewing galleries designed for differently-abled and visually challenged citizens. The project also incorporates green building principles and climate-responsive architecture. Features include cross-ventilation systems, fins on the eastern façade, a hybrid glass design to regulate sunlight while allowing airflow, and a central courtyard with a pergola to release hot air efficiently. Plantation of large trees on the southern side will further help reduce heat impact.
An NMMC official said, “The project is in its final stage, and we are ensuring that all modern amenities are in place before commissioning. This library will serve as a major knowledge hub for students and citizens in the area.”
Source: The Free Press Journal
