Central Library (DHA) (DCL), one of the prime institutions of Defence Housing Authority, Karachi and situated at main Sunset Boulevard, Phase-II DHA was established on 3rd November 1991.
Comprising a beautifully designed and artistically decorated building, it has a large collection of books, subscribes to a large number of National and International Newspapers, Magazines and provides modern Audio-Visual facilities in a congenial environment to its members. Library information service is computerised, maintains complete data of books' inventory, membership records, their accounts, besides members' check In/Out record at reception and facility of issuance of books, DCL has also a separate and fully equipped children library section. DCL complex consists of Main Library, Children Library, Conference Room, Auditorium, Library Office and Cafeteria.
HEC Digital Library Affiliation: DCL proudly informs its valued members that they can access the Digital Library of Higher Education Commission of Pakistan which provides full text of thousands of books and journals published by renowned publishers throughout the world. DCL members can search, view, copy and print such books/journals having subjects like Economics, Finance, Philosophy, Religion, Management Sciences, Medicines, Engineering etc.
Books Selection Committee: Books are selected by a Books Selection Committee headed by Director Education DHA. Its members are well read educationists of high standing. Books suggested by the members are also considered for selection by the committee. Donation of books to DCL is always appreciated. Members may also suggest books through the "Book Demand Register" available with librarian or through email.
Auditorium & Conference Room: DCL has a beautifully designed and well furnished air conditioned auditorium and conference room, having state of the art Dolby Digital Surround Sound System and high resolution Multimedia (optional). Auditorium and Conference room are provided to everyone on rentals. However, these are available for all activities except political and wedding functions. These are most suitable for holding Seminars, Workshops, Symposiums, Book Launching. Art and Craft Exhibitions, TV commercials, promotional activities, Religious, social and literary functions. DCL lawn in front of Café is spacious for hosting receptions for above functions.
DCl, established in 1991 has since come of age. Over the years, it has grown manifold in all its forms and manifestations. In the scenario of diminishing importance given to libraries, DCl is a light at the end of the tunnel. It is a new generation of modern public library which provides most conducive reading and learning environments. It is a well-equipped library having modern facilities like computerised library services, modern and speedy internet facilities, access to digital library of HEC, state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities, exclusive newspapers and periodicals section and a unique Children's Library fully equipped with modern facilities for playing and learning. DCl is also an emerging socio-linguistic centre of the metropolis.
But more importantly DCl has more than 63,000 invaluable books on its inventory. They are the treasure of knowledge. The list of newly purchased books is available with Duty Librarian and can also be seen on website www.dclkarachi.com.
There is very little in the way of human achievement, knowledge or wisdom that is not confined between the covers of a book. Whatever we wish to learn, to know, is quietly waiting for us in some library shelf. Through books we can have personal contact with the greatest minds ever produced. Only through books we can roll back the centuries or peer into the future, ignore the restrictions of time and space and live in a three dimensional world created by mind. Libraries are infact the lifeline of nation.
The strength of a nation is determined by the educational prowess of its people. It is the libraries which help refurbish and refine the character, vision and outlook of the people. Libraries are treasures of wisdom which motivate and discipline people to read and learn.
Libraries play an important role in promoting knowledge and enlightenment in Society. They are repository of knowledge and wisdom. Libraries are intellectual venues which can transform the nation through an intellectually inspired revolution.