database, which could ensure easy access to books. The library has a collection of over 600,000 books. In 1981 the central government ordered that the library became one of the four national depository libraries. The library, however, is not a registered member of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). Collections The library, along with the Madras museum, benefited greatly from the effects of the Madras Literary Society, the Oriental Manuscripts Library and the Records Office. Under the provision of Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act 1954, every publisher in India has to compulsorily send a copy of each publication to the library. Apart from this a good number of publications and periodicals of UN and its specialized organs and Asian Development Bank were also received. Furthermore, several books were added every year by purchasing from the funds made available by the state government budget. The collection includes rare books including a 1608 Bible. Librarians Gallery See also Government Museum, Chennai Anna Centenary Library References External links Connemara Public Library Public libraries in India Libraries in Chennai Tourist attractions in Chennai Deposit libraries Library buildings completed in 1896 Libraries established in 1896