Numerous esteemed universities with their own libraries providing distinctive resources and services can be found in Dhaka.
These university libraries are vital hubs of knowledge, offering books, journals, archives, digital resources, and study areas to researchers, instructors and students.
Here, we examine and rank a few of Dhaka’s most well-known university libraries according to their materials, environment, technology, accessibility, and general learning assistance.
So, stay tuned if you want insight into the libraries of universities such as – Dhaka University (DU), Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet), Jahangirnagar University (JU), Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) and North-South University (NSU).
Dhaka University Central Library
Overview
As one of the largest and oldest libraries in the country, the Dhaka University Library (DUL) houses a vast collection of over 7 lakh books and periodicals. Divided into three sections — the main library, the science library, and the medical library — it serves the needs of students across various disciplines. With ample resources and regular updates, DUL is a go-to source for academic materials and research support in Dhaka.
Ratings
Accessibility: 8/10
The library is open to University of Dhaka students, faculty, and registered researchers. The library hours are accommodating, though extended hours during exam seasons could be beneficial.
Resources: 9/10
With a diverse collection of academic books, journals, and reference materials, DUL is well-equipped. However, some materials are outdated, and expanding digital subscriptions could further enhance resources.
Environment: 7/10
The reading areas are spacious, but the library could improve in terms of comfort and modernity. Noise levels can also be an issue during peak hours.
Technology: 6/10
DUL offers limited online catalog access and digital resources compared to other libraries. An improvement in digital databases and e-resources would benefit students and researchers greatly.
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) central library
Overview
The BUET central library serves as an essential resource for engineering students, researchers, and faculty, offering over one lakh volumes and a wide selection of engineering and technology journals. Though focused on specific disciplines, it is one of the most valuable resources for technical and scientific research in Bangladesh.
Ratings
Accessibility: 7.5/10
Open primarily to BUET students, faculty, and researchers, the library has structured hours but could offer more flexibility for extended research periods.
Resources: 8.5/10
With a vast collection tailored to engineering, architecture, and science, BUET Library provides essential materials for students in technical fields. The addition of more diverse fields of study could expand its value to the broader academic community.
Environment: 7/10
The reading spaces are functional but lack modern amenities and comfort. While the library is well-organized, improved seating and study facilities would enhance the experience.
Technology: 7/10
Though the library provides access to several digital journals, a more robust online platform and increased digital access would benefit students seeking updated research materials.
Overall Rating: 7.5/10
BUET central library is highly valued for its specialized resources but could enhance user experience by modernizing its facilities and expanding digital resources.
Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) library
Overview
The IUB library, known for its emphasis on digital resources and a spacious, modern facility, supports a variety of disciplines with over 30,000 volumes and significant digital resources. It offers an innovative and student-centered approach, making it a preferred space for independent study and research.
Ratings
Accessibility: 8/10
The library is open to IUB students and faculty with ample operating hours, though not accessible to the general public.
Resources: 8/10
IUB library provides a mix of physical and digital resources, focusing on journals, e-books, and databases. Its collection could be expanded for a more comprehensive academic offering.
Environment: 8.5/10
The library’s modern design and quiet study spaces create a pleasant environment. Its spacious seating and ample natural light make it ideal for long study hours.
Technology: 8.5/10
Equipped with strong Wi-Fi, a digital catalog, and access to online databases, the IUB library provides effective support for modern learning needs.
Overall Rating: 8.25/10
IUB library combines modern facilities with digital resource support, making it a popular choice for students looking for a well-rounded academic environment.
Jahangirnagar University central library
Overview
The Jahangirnagar University central library plays an important role in academics for both students and faculties with a blend of traditional and digital resources. Its collection includes over 1.2 lakh volumes, books, journals, and periodicals across various disciplines. The serene campus environment of the library adds to its appeal as a study space.
Ratings
Accessibility: 7.5/10
The library is primarily accessible to Jahangirnagar University students and staff. Generally, it operates at decent hours, although there could be more flexibility around examination times.
Resources: 7.5/10
The library is satisfactory in terms of its collection regarding academic books, but its digital resources need to be extended, along with updating the older collections of books.
Ambience: 8/10
The library is situated on a green campus; hence, an average environment can be enjoyed. However, improved seating arrangements and air conditioning would increase comfort.
Technology: 6.5/10
The availability of digital resources is very limited. Better access to online databases and a more comprehensive digital catalog would bring its services into the modern era.
Overall Rating: 7.4/10
Jahangirnagar University central library offers a quiet place to study, a good resource base, but needs improvement in technology and modern facilities.
Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) library
Overview
The BUP library is a modern facility addressing the needs of students in disciplines related to business, law, and social sciences. The library has strived to achieve an appropriate balance between physical and digital access, emphasizing convenience and a supportive learning environment.
Ratings
Accessibility: 8/10
The library is accessible to BUP students and faculty, and it has regular operating hours. Greater accessibility for external researchers might be revisited for the benefit of broader academic cooperation.
Resources: 8/10
With the growing collection of academic texts and significant digitization of resources such as e-books and journals, this is definitely an academic hub of note.
Environment: 8.5/10
The interior of the library is modern, with comfortable seating and well-lit, hence creating an excellent study environment.
Technology: 8.5/10
It is at par with modern technology; there is a robust digital platform, international journals, and online catalogs available for consultation.
Overall Rating: 8.25/10
The BUP Library has a resourceful academic setting that is modern and comfortable to use, so students like going there.
North South University (NSU) library
Overview
The North South University library has been noted for its rich digital resources and an impressive physical collection of more than 50,000 volumes. It has a state-of-the-art student-friendly area focusing on interdepartmental academic assistance.
Ratings
Accessibility: 8.5/10
Open to NSU students and faculty with generous operating hours. Membership policies for external researchers could be more flexible.
Resources: 9/10
With extensive physical and digital collections, the library supports diverse academic needs. The digital resource center, including access to global databases, is particularly commendable.
Environment: 9/10
The library boasts a state-of-the-art facility with quiet study zones, group discussion rooms, and comfortable seating.
Technology: 9/10
Equipped with high-speed internet, advanced search systems, and an integrated online library portal, NSU library raises the bar for technological integration.
Overall Rating: 8.8/10
The NSU library provides an exemplary academic and research environment, outstanding in technological resources and student-centered design.
Final thoughts
University libraries in Dhaka play a crucial role in fostering academic success, each offering its own strengths and challenges. While libraries provide modern, tech-friendly environments, public universities like University of Dhaka and BUET serve a broad audience with extensive resources but could benefit from modernization efforts. As Dhaka’s academic community continues to grow, the future of these libraries will hinge on balancing digital advancements with an inclusive, accessible approach to education and research.