Barton Library and Museum
A 140-year-old heritage library in Bhavnagar, housing over 88,000 books and admired for its adorable architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for study
Barton Library and Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for study
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 140-year-old heritage library in Bhavnagar, housing over 88,000 books and admired for its adorable architecture.
"This library is not only an interesting historical institution but has huge contribution in creating the learned, modern 'Bahvnagaris'."
Membership Options
Annual membership is ₹500 (₹200 registration, ₹100 entry, ₹200 deposit). Lifetime (10-year) is ₹2500. :ticket:
Book Borrowing Policy
Members can borrow books for 20 days (annual) or 30 days (lifetime). Late fees are ₹2 per day. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Bhavnagar, Gujarat
Admire the adorable architecture of this 140-year-old heritage building, a testament to its rich history.
Vast Book Collection
Main Reading Hall
Explore over 88,000 books in Gujarati, Hindi, English, and Sanskrit, covering diverse topics.
Competitive Exam Resources
Periodicals Section
Access daily newspapers and magazines ('samyiko') crucial for competitive exam preparation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Preserving a Legacy
A Quiet Haven for Readers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Membership Options
Annual membership is ₹500 (₹200 registration, ₹100 entry, ₹200 deposit). Lifetime (10-year) is ₹2500. :ticket:
Book Borrowing Policy
Members can borrow books for 20 days (annual) or 30 days (lifetime). Late fees are ₹2 per day. :books:
Preservation Efforts
Consider supporting this heritage library as a CSR project to help preserve its history. :pray:
Check for Maintenance
During monsoon, water leakage can be an issue. Inquire about current conditions before visiting. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
Membership Options
Annual membership is ₹500 (₹200 registration, ₹100 entry, ₹200 deposit). Lifetime (10-year) is ₹2500. :ticket:
Book Borrowing Policy
Members can borrow books for 20 days (annual) or 30 days (lifetime). Late fees are ₹2 per day. :books:
Preservation Efforts
Consider supporting this heritage library as a CSR project to help preserve its history. :pray:
Check for Maintenance
During monsoon, water leakage can be an issue. Inquire about current conditions before visiting. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Barton Library is a cherished heritage site in Bhavnagar, praised for its adorable architecture and extensive collection of over 88,000 books in multiple languages. While it's a valuable center for learning and competitive exam preparation, some reviews point to maintenance issues, particularly during monsoons, highlighting a need for preservation efforts.
"Barton Library is one of the oldest libraries in Gujarat, with a collection of over 88,000 books in various languages. It is a great place to find information on a variety of topics, and the staff is always happy to help. The library is open to the public and is a great place to spend a quiet afternoon reading or studying."
Tabrez Ali
"Looks like the time of libraries has gone. The library is in bad condition, in monsoon water coming from the roof. Good to see a few people coming to read. Unfortunately the younger generation is not interested in reading. About 140 year old library,if someone can take it as a CSR project and revive it. It has a beautiful building and history to preserve."
Vandan Dalal
"The centre of learning, sharing and also for erstwhile Independence struggle. This library is not only an interesting historical institution but has huge contribution in creating the learned, modern 'Bahvnagaris'. Building has its own history and adorable architecture"
ashish trambadia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barton Library is located in the heart of Bhavnagar city, Gujarat. You can reach it by local auto-rickshaws or taxis from anywhere in the city. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Parking availability can be limited due to its central location. It's advisable to use local transport or be prepared to park a short walk away.
The nearest major transport hubs are Bhavnagar Terminus railway station and Bhavnagar Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the library.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's an entry fee of ₹100 for visitors. For membership, the annual fee is ₹500 (including a ₹200 deposit) and lifetime membership is ₹2500.
The library is generally open during weekdays and Saturdays. Specific timings can vary, so it's best to check locally or inquire beforehand, especially for weekend hours.
Yes, you can get an annual membership for ₹500 or a lifetime membership for ₹2500, which allows you to borrow books for home reading.
Yes, the library is open to the public. You can visit to read within the premises or become a member to borrow books.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
The library boasts a collection of over 88,000 books in Gujarati, Hindi, English, and Sanskrit, covering a wide range of subjects from novels to academic texts.
Absolutely! It's a center for learning with resources for competitive exams, including newspapers and magazines. The quiet atmosphere is conducive to studying.
Established about 140 years ago, it's one of Gujarat's oldest libraries and played a role in the independence struggle. Its building is also noted for its adorable architecture.
Yes, the library offers good lighting and air conditioning in its reading areas, making it comfortable for visitors to spend time reading.
While it's a heritage site with beautiful architecture, some reviews mention maintenance issues, particularly water leakage during monsoons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Barton Library is primarily a place for reading and study, so there are no food or dining facilities within the premises. You'll need to find eateries outside the library.
Being in the city center, there are numerous local eateries, cafes, and restaurants in the vicinity of Barton Library offering various cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival. Often, interior photography might be restricted to preserve the ambiance and collection.
The exterior architecture of the heritage building is quite photogenic. If interior photography is permitted, the grand reading halls and book stacks can make for striking shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to manage expectations for very young children, as the library's primary purpose is quiet study and reading. Consider it more for a brief visit to appreciate the heritage and perhaps pick out a book for a quiet read together, rather than an extended family activity.
📚 Avid Readers & Students
Membership options are quite reasonable, allowing you to borrow books for extended periods. The comfortable reading environment with good lighting and air conditioning further enhances the experience for dedicated readers and diligent students.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem of Bhavnagar
While the library's historical and architectural value is undeniable, some visitors have noted that the building requires ongoing preservation efforts. The mention of water leakage during monsoons highlights the challenges in maintaining such old structures. This aspect also leads to a call for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to help revive and maintain this valuable asset.
Despite potential maintenance concerns, the library's interior is described as having good lighting and air conditioning, creating a comfortable environment for visitors. This blend of historical charm and functional comfort makes it a unique place to explore.
A Hub for Knowledge and Learning
Beyond general literature, the library is particularly noted for its resources that aid in competitive exam preparation. The availability of daily newspapers and various magazines ('samyiko') provides current affairs updates essential for students aiming for competitive exams.
The library offers flexible membership options, including annual and lifetime plans, allowing patrons to borrow books for extended periods. This feature makes it an invaluable resource for avid readers and students who prefer studying at home.
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