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Acquisition Division

The Acquisition Division of the National Library of Sri Lanka is responsible for the systematic acquisition of all categories of library materials required to support the National Library’s mandate as the country’s principal reference and research library.

Scope of Collection 

The Division acquires a wide range of materials in both print and non-print formats, including:

  • Books and monographs
  • Palm leaf (ola leaf) manuscripts
  • Journals, magazines, and newspapers
  • Government publications such as Gazettes, Acts, Bills, Hansard reports, Sessional Papers, and other official documents
  • Theses and dissertations
  • Maps
  • Audio-visual materials
  • Electronic and digital publications

Acquisition Policy

The acquisition policy of the National Library is guided by the principle of building a comprehensive national collection. Accordingly, the Library seeks to collect:

  • All materials published in Sri Lanka
  • All materials published anywhere in the world relating to Sri Lanka
  • All publications produced overseas by Sri Lankan authors

This policy ensures the preservation of Sri Lanka’s intellectual, cultural, and scholarly output for present and future generations.

Acquisition of Theses and Dissertations

The National Library and Documentation Center (NLDC), as the focal point of the national library system, has initiated a special project to acquire research theses and dissertations submitted by scholars and researchers.

The project covers the acquisition of: 

  • PhD Theses
  • MPhil Theses
  • Master of Library Science (MLS) Theses / Dissertations
  • MA (Two-year research-based programmes) Theses

Criteria for Acquisition of Theses and Dissertations

Theses and dissertations submitted under this programme must meet the following criteria:

  • The thesis or dissertation must have been submitted for the award of PhD, MPhil, MA, or MLS from a recognized university, either in Sri Lanka or abroad.
  • The author must be a Sri Lankan, or the subject of the research must be on or directly relevant to Sri Lanka.
  • Only theses and dissertations submitted after 1980 are accepted.

To facilitate the creation of an additional copy for the National Library collection, the NLDC provides the following fees:

  • Rs. 7,500.00 for PhD theses
  • Rs. 5,000.00 for MPhil, MA, and MLS theses (Two-year research-based programmes)

Our Role

Through its comprehensive acquisition programme, the Acquisition Division plays a critical role in building and preserving the national documentary heritage, ensuring that Sri Lanka’s published and unpublished scholarly output is systematically collected and made available for research and reference.

Bibliographic Control Division

The Bibliographic Control Division of the National Library of Sri Lanka develops national bibliographic standards and ensures that information about Sri Lankan publications is accurately recorded, organized, and made accessible to the public. Authoritative document of the country

What We Do
Sri Lanka National Bibliography

We compile and publish both current and retrospective national bibliographies—authoritative sources for information on Sri Lankan publications. The National Bibliography is published on monthly basis.

Cataloguing & Classification

We create and maintain national cataloguing frameworks using MARC 21, ensuring uniform cataloguing practices across Sri Lankan libraries. DBIB/SLMARC

Online Catalogues

We develop and update the National Library’s Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and the National Union Catalogue (NUC), providing convenient online access to bibliographic data.

Cataloguing-in-Publication (CIP)

We issue cataloguing data to publishers before books are printed, supporting accurate and consistent bibliographic records.

Training & Professional Development

We conduct seminars, workshops, and lectures on cataloguing, classification, subject indexing, and bibliographic management for library professionals nationwide.

Our Services

National Bibliography of Sri Lanka (Current)

Published monthly, the Sri Lanka National Bibliography includes:

  • Publications in Sinhala, Tamil, and English
  • Books about Sri Lanka printed abroad
  • Works by Sri Lankans published overseas
  • First issues of newspapers and periodicals
  • Audiovisual materials
  • Unpublished academic theses

It is the official and authoritative record of Sri Lankan publications.

National Bibliography of Sri Lanka (Retrospective)

This long-term project compiles bibliographic information from 1737 to 1962, covering the earliest printing to modern pre-independence publications.

Completed/ongoing sections include:

  • 1737–1884 (Sinhala, Tamil & English)
  • 1885–1900 (Sinhala, Tamil & English)
  • 1901–1910 (Sinhala & English)
  • 1911–1920 (Sinhala & English)
  • 1921–1930 (Sinhala & English)
  • 1901–1940 (Tamil)
  • 1941–1961 (English)
  • 1962 (Sinhala, Tamil & English)

Sri Lanka Periodical Article Index

A quarterly index providing bibliographic information on articles published in Sri Lankan periodicals in Sinhala, Tamil, and English.

Cataloguing-in-Publication (CIP)

Publishers and authors can obtain official bibliographic data before printing, ensuring accurate cataloguing in libraries across the country.

National Union Catalogue

A searchable online catalogue created by compiling bibliographic records from automated libraries across Sri Lanka. It helps users identify which library holds a specific publication.

National Library’s Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)

Our KOHA-based online catalogue provides public access to records of all items held by the National Library of Sri Lanka.

Standards & Authority Files
MARC 21 Descriptive Bibliographic Framework (DBIB)

Standardized formats for cataloguing:

  • Books and monographs
  • Periodicals
  • Degree theses

These standards ensure uniform cataloguing practices across all Sri Lankan libraries.

Authority Lists
  • Sinhala Title Authority List – Ensures consistent use of Sinhala titles in catalogues.
  • Sinhala Author Authority List – Standardizes Sinhala author names to avoid variations.
  • Directory of Ministries in Sri Lanka – Provides authoritative ministry names for bibliographic reference.

National Bibliographic Catalogue Compilation Policy

This guide outlines the procedures and best practices followed when preparing the National Bibliography of Sri Lanka, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and professional standards.

Conservation & Preservation Division

The Conservation & Preservation Division of the National Library & Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) is responsible for safeguarding the National Library’s documentary heritage through scientific conservation, preventive preservation, capacity building, and national and international coordination. The Division produces a traditional herbal resin oil called ― “Dummala Oil” for the preservation of palm leaf manuscripts, known as ― “PANHINDA”.

The main objective of this initiative is to enhance the long-term preservation of ola leaf manuscripts by combining traditional knowledge with conservation science.

 In addition, the Conservation & Preservation Division plays a key coordinating role at both national and international levels:

Through these roles, the Division contributes to the protection, recognition, and promotion of Sri Lanka’s documentary and intangible cultural heritage.

What We Do

The Division oversees the Conservation Laboratory, Book Bindery, and Fumigation Unit, which together ensure the long-term preservation and usability of library and archival materials held at the National Library of Sri Lanka.

Its conservation activities cover a wide spectrum of library resources, ranging from traditional palm leaf (ola leaf) manuscripts and printed books to modern and digital materials.

Conservation and Preservation Services

  • Conservation of diverse library materials, including rare and fragile heritage collections.
  • Implementation of preventive conservation measures across all National Library repositories.
  • Operation of specialized facilities for conservation treatment, bookbinding, and fumigation.
  • Operation of specialaProvision of professional advice and guidelines on conservation and preservation for all types of libraries, record rooms, and the general public. ized facilities for conservation treatment, bookbinding, and fumigation.

Awareness and Outreach

The Division actively promotes awareness of conservation and preservation through:

  • Distribution of leaflets, brochures, and posters on best practices.
  • Public education initiatives aimed at encouraging responsible handling and care of documentary heritage.
  • In the event of disasters such as floods and cyclones, the Division offers guidance to libraries on minimising damage and applying suitable preservation and conservation measures.

Training and Capacity Building

The Division conducts seminars, workshops, and training programmes—both theoretical and practical—covering areas such as:

  • Conservation of ola leaf manuscripts
  • Bookbinding techniques
  • Document repair
  • Scientific conservation and preservation methods for library materials

These programmes are designed for library staff from all types of libraries, record room keepers,and interested individuals, with the objective of strengthening national capacity in preservation and conservation.

Our Commitment

Through professional expertise, preventive strategies, training, and international collaboration, the Conservation & Preservation Division is committed to preserving Sri Lanka’s documentary heritage for present and future generations.

Digital Library Unit

The National Digital Unit is responsible for preserving Sri Lanka’s digital heritage and providing easy access to knowledge through the National Digital Library and Repository, ensuring these resources remain available for future generations.

Information and Communication Technology has transformed the concept of libraries worldwide, with digitization becoming an essential component of modern library services. In keeping with global trends in the library and information sector, the National Library & Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) has established the National Digital Library and Repository (NDLR) to collect, preserve, and provide access to digital resources in Sri Lanka.

The primary objective of the National Digital Library and Repository is to collect, manage, and maintain national digital resources and to provide reliable digital information services to the reader community, supporting education, research, teaching, and scholarship.

The NDLR was officially inaugurated on 25 May 2016, in conjunction with the 26th Anniversary of the National Library of Sri Lanka.

Users may browse the collections of the NDLR by selecting from the following communities:
(Should give access to digital content available under each community and sub communities )

  • NLDSB Publications (Repository)
  • Government Publications
  • Books
  • Rare Book Collection
  • Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)
  • Book Projects
  • Special Collections
  • Journals
  • Research Articles, Proceedings & Reports
  • Newspaper Collection
  • Newspaper Clippings

Terms and Conditions for Use of Contents of NDLR

Use of Contents

The prime objective of the NDLR is to disseminate information to the reader community for purposes such as education, research, teaching, and scholarship. The contents of the National Digital Library shall not be used for commercial purposes.

Users are not permitted to distribute, reproduce, or disseminate the contents in any form, including through the Internet. Whenever information obtained from the National Digital Library is used for any purpose, users are required to acknowledge the National Digital Library portal as the source.

Authenticity

Every effort has been made to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the digitized copies available through the portal. However, the National Digital Library is not responsible for defects or errors arising from digitization processes, including human or technical errors.

Responsibility for the authenticity, completeness, and accuracy of the content rests with the original publishers or source institutions. Digital copies are issued on request with the understanding that they are reproductions of resources available within the National Digital Library collections.

Access and Copyright

Certain materials available in the National Digital Library may be protected under copyright law. Access to such materials may therefore be limited or restricted. Written authorization from the copyright holder is required to obtain access to the full text of restricted materials.

While every effort is made to ensure uninterrupted access to the portal, the National Digital Library & Documentation Services Board does not accept responsibility for temporary unavailability due to technical issues or other unforeseen circumstances.

Privacy Policy

The National Digital Library collects only the personal information that users voluntarily provide for the purpose of processing service requests. Such information is not used for any other purpose and is disclosed only when required by law.

The NDLR is committed to protecting user privacy and handling personal data responsibly.

Give Links: National Digital Library and Repository (NDLR) policy & NDLR Access Policy

Education & Training Division

The Education & Training Division of the National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) plays a key role in strengthening the professional capacity of Sri Lanka’s library and information sector. The division provides structured training, skill development programmes, certificate courses, diploma-level qualifications, and workshops for library professionals, para professionals, students, researchers, government officers, and those aspiring to enter the field.

The division aims to create a knowledgeable, technically skilled, and service-oriented workforce that can enhance the quality, efficiency, and modernization of libraries across the country.

Objectives

  • To improve professional competencies of library and information science personnel in Sri Lanka.
  • To provide structured academic and vocational training in library management, conservation, ICT applications, research methodology, and data analysis.
  • To support continuous professional development through certificate, diploma, and short term training programmes.
  • To empower library staff with modern technological skills and practical knowledge.
  • To contribute to the advancement of national library standards through guided training, workshops, and professional consultancy.

Training Programmes

  • In house training programme in Basic Library Management
  • Workshop on Conservation and Preservation of Library Materials
  • Workshop on Book Binding and Court Document Conservation – Stage.1 – For Court Archive Officers
  • Workshop on Book Binding and Court Document Conservation – Stage.2 – For Court Archive Officers
  • Workshop on Book Binding and Document Conservation – Stage.1 – For Office and Archive Officers
  • Certificate Course in Data Analysis
  • Certificate Course in Research Methodology
  • Diploma in Creative Writing and Communication
  • Diploma in Creative Writing and Communication
  • Workshop on Koha Library Management System
Read More Details

Extension Services Division

The Extension Services Division of the National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) supports the development of reading culture in Sri Lanka and provides essential advisory services to strengthen the nation’s library network. The Division leads national reading promotional programmes, library advisory services, and library development activities to improve access to knowledge and development of selected rural libraries and enhance reading by
distribution of reading materials across the country.

National Reading Month

In 2004, the NLDSB and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage declared October as National Reading Month, a landmark annual initiative promoting reading habits nationwide.

Objectives

  • To Foster interest and habits in reading among all age groups
  • To Improve access to local and international books
  • To Increase library use and engagement
  • To Build a knowledge-based society focused on creativity and critical thinking

Implementation

  • Official circulars are issued to libraries before the start of the programme
  • Public and school libraries take lead roles
  • Children’s participation is especially encouraged

Major Activities

  • Reading competitions (silent reading, reading aloud)
  • Poetry and short-story competitions
  • Reading and readers’ camps
  • Workshops, seminars, and training
  • Book exhibitions and writer discussions
  • National awards ceremony recognizing excellence

Impact

  • Increased library visits and book donations/circulation
  • Enhanced reading habits among students and adults
  • Positive psychosocial and intellectual growth in schoolchildren
  • Strengthening of a lifelong reading culture nationwide

National Reading Month remains one of Sri Lanka’s most successful national literacy initiatives.

Library Development and Advisory Services

The Extension Services Division provides essential professional services to improve library infrastructure, collections, technology, and overall service excellence.

Guidance on architectural design, interior layouts, environmental conditions, and construction of new libraries.

Specifications and expert recommendations for selecting furniture and equipment suited for
library environments.

Support for classification, cataloguing, and collection development using standards such as:

  • Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
  • AACR2
  • MARC 21

Advice on planning and managing library services, including KOHA systems, user engagement,and modern service models.

Training and consultancy on implementing technologies such as:

  • OPAC
  • ILMS
  • QR Codes
  • RFID
  • LMS systems

Preparation of national standards aligned with IFLA and UNESCO guidelines for public, school, departmental, and special libraries.

Distribution of high-quality locally printed books to libraries based on need to encourage reading and equitable knowledge access.

Registration and support for home libraries operated by individuals and organizations, including training and professional advice. Application (Sinhala/Tamil/English)

Donation of books, stationery, and furniture to rural libraries to expand reading opportunities.

Activities for children and communities, including book donations, reading competitions, and educational lectures.

Helping libraries acquire books, tools, and equipment at national and international book exhibitions.

Offers publications, guides, and stationery
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday (8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.)

A color-based classification method enabling quick identification of materials and improving library management efficiency.

Located on Gangabada Road, Bandaragama, the Soma Jayakody Model Library and Training Centre—originating from the personal collection of renowned author late Ms. Soma Jayakody—serves as:

  • An open community library for reading and learning
  • A training hub for library management
  • A model centre promoting knowledge sharing and enhancing reading culture

This fully functional centre benefits readers, students, and library professionals, supporting lifelong learning and community development in the area.

Finance Division

The Finance Division of the National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) is responsible for the prudent management of financial resources to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective utilization of public funds in support of the Board’s statutory functions.

The Division operates in accordance with government financial regulations, circulars, and audit requirements, and provides financial guidance to all divisions of the National Library to support sustainable service delivery and institutional development.

Key Functions

  • Preparation and implementation of the annual budget and monitoring of expenditure
  • Maintenance of accounts in compliance with government financial regulations and accounting standards
  • Processing of payments, salaries, allowances, and other financial transactions
  • Financial reporting, including preparation of financial statements and management reports
  • Coordination with the Auditor General’s Department and facilitation of internal and external audits
  • Management of revenue, grants, donations, and project funds
  • Financial oversight of procurement activities in collaboration with the Administration Division
  • Advising management and divisions on financial planning, controls, and cost-effective resource utilization

Through its financial stewardship, the Finance Division plays a critical role in ensuring the financial stability of the NLDSB and supporting the National Library of Sri Lanka in fulfilling its national responsibilities.

Information Technology Division

The IT Division of the National Library of Sri Lanka (NLDSB) is responsible for integrating modern information technology into all operations of the library, facilitating digital initiatives, and supporting database- driven library management systems.

By leveraging IT tools, the division ensures efficient information dissemination, digital resource accessibility, and technical support across the library ecosystem in Sri Lanka.

Core Functions

Server Configuration and Management
  • Deployment, configuration, and monitoring of library servers to maintain uptime, security, and performance.
  • Regular backup strategies and disaster recovery planning to safeguard library databases.
  • Configuration of web servers (Apache, Nginx) to host the library’s online portals with secure access protocols (HTTPS/TLS).
Website Development and Maintenance
  • Implementation and maintenance of the National Library website and Online Catalogue Systems.
  • Seamless integration with digital library platforms and open-access repositories.
  • Utilization of content management systems (CMS) to publish news, events, and digital resources efficiently.
Database Management
  • Management of relational and non-relational databases to store bibliographic records and digital assets.
  • Optimization of query performance, indexing strategies, and data normalization to support large scale user queries.
  • Security management including rolebased access control, encryption, and audit logging of database activity.
Cyber security and Network Monitoring
  • Implementation of firewalls, and regular penetration testing to protect library assets.
  • Network monitoring to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for internal operations and public access.
  • Enforcement of library IT policies and user guidelines in line with national ICT standards.
Digital Initiatives and Open Source Adoption
  • Supporting the adoption of open- source software for library cataloging and resource management.
  • Enhancing access to online scholarly resources and promoting the development of national digital repositories.

Engagement and Support

The IT Division also conducts training programmes for library staff to utilize digital tools effectively, ensuring that the National Library embraces innovative technologies for research, reference, and public access services.

Library Cooperation Division

The Library Cooperation Division plays a central role in strengthening partnerships within the library sector—locally and internationally. The Division works to enhance collaboration, share knowledge resources, support professional development, and contribute to the national policy framework for libraries in Sri Lanka. Its work ensures that the country’s library network remains connected, progressive, and aligned with global standards

Objectives

The main objective of the Library Cooperation Division is to maintain and strengthen mutual cooperation with:

  • Local libraries
  • Foreign national libraries
  • Maintenance of Library Standards and Grading of libraries (public/school/government libraries)
  • Institutions and professional associations It also contributes to the development of national policies related to the library sector to ensure uniformity and development/growth.

Key Functions

International and Local Collaborative Programmes
  • Implement collaborative initiatives with foreign national libraries and professional institutions, often in coordination with embassies.
  • Facilitate scholarships, training programmes, and professional development opportunities offered by international organizations.
  • Make arrangements for NLDSB officials to participate in international conferences, seminars, and knowledge-sharing events.
  • Organize cultural and educational programmes through embassy partnerships.
Local and International Publication Exchange
  • Exchange publications with local and overseas libraries through established exchange services.
  • Collect and distribute publications of national significance to foreign libraries upon request.
  • Acquire foreign publications on Sri Lanka, works by Sri Lankan authors abroad, reference materials, and publications on library science in line with the National Library Collection Policy.
Support for Provincial Library Service Boards
  • Provide professional advice and guidance to Provincial Library Service Boards operating under Provincial Councils.
  • Monitor their progress, organize the annual conference, and support the timely revision of statutes.
Formulation of National Library Policies
  • Develop national-level policies related to library operations, staff recruitment, and service standards for government and local government libraries.
  • Ensure uniformity, consistency, and improved governance across the library sector.
Professional Coordination and Problem-Solving
  • Identify challenges faced by library professionals and refer them to the appropriate government institutions for solutions.
  • Maintain close cooperation with professional library associations to discuss and address sector-related issues.
Participation in Library Networks
  • Collaborate with, and become members of, national and international library networks.
  • Facilitate resource sharing, knowledge exchange, and expanded access to information to meet wide-ranging reader needs.
Library Grading Programme

A grading system to improve service quality of Public Libraries across the nation. Following are the rates (as at 01/12/2025) charged for grading libraries.

Supra Grade

Rs. 10,000

Grade I

Rs. 10,000

Grade II

Rs. 8,000

Grade III

Rs. 5,000

Library Research Division

Research plays a vital role in generating knowledge, supporting innovation, shaping national policy, and preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural and intellectual heritage. The Library Research Division of the National Library of Sri Lanka leads research initiatives that strengthen the library and information science sector and support the country’s wider educational and cultural development.

What we do

The Library Research Division is responsible for initiating, promoting, coordinating, and maintaining research studies related to all aspects of library and documentation services in Sri Lanka. Our work supports national planning, professional development, and informed decision making. We provide assistance to receive Ethical Clearance Reports for researchers in the LIS sector.

Key Functions and Services

Identifying Research Needs

We identify current and emerging research needs in the field of library and information science in Sri Lanka and encourage researchers—both professionals and amateurs—to explore these areas.

Supporting Novel Researchers

We provide:

  • Guidance for writing project proposals, reports and dissertations (Academic writing)
  • Access to essential data and information through surveys and research studies
  • Guidance for data analysis
  • Knowledge dissemination through publications, events, and advisory services

The Research Assistance Unit, operated by the division, offers personalized support to researchers visiting the National Library by helping them resolve practical research-related challenges.

Collect and Maintain Library Sector Statistics/Data

The division maintains an up-to-date database of information on libraries across Sri Lanka. Based on this, we publish authoritative annual reports on the Sri Lankan library sector.

Annual Research Conference

Our annual research conference provides a platform for Sri Lankan and international scholars to:

  • Present research findings
  • Share new knowledge through global collaboration
  • Publish scholarly papers

This conference plays a major role in advancing library and information science research both locally and internationally. (A separate site for this purpose and details on Research Conference 2026 can be added)

Annual National Library Research Awards

To recognize and encourage excellence, the division organizes the National Library Research Awards, celebrating:

  • Outstanding academic research of the year
  • Innovative contributions to library and information science
  • Emerging researchers who show exceptional promise
Training, Workshops & Certificate Courses

To strengthen research skills in the social sciences and humanities, the division conducts:

  • Workshops
  • Certificate courses
  • Lecture series
  • Weekend courses

These programmes cover topics such as research methodology, academic writing, research software tools/analytical tools, and research reporting. Sessions are offered both onsite and online and are also promoted through social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook.

National Library Review (NLR)

The division publishes the National Library Review, biannually featuring scholarly articles, research findings, and analyses relevant to the library and information science field.

Read More
Research Ethics

We promote ethical research practices and produce research-based reports that contribute to the advancement of library science. A key focus is encouraging the library sector in Sri Lanka to align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through informed and ethical research work. Awareness programmes are conducted for making library sector aware of SDGs and how to use them in evaluating their library activities.

Application Form for ERC

Working Toward a Knowledge-Rich Future

Through research leadership, awareness, and national collaboration, the Library Research Division plays a central role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s library and information system and supporting future-ready knowledge development.

Maintenance Division

The Maintenance Division of the National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) is responsible for the upkeep, safety, and efficient functioning of the physical infrastructure and facilities of the National Library of Sri Lanka. The Division ensures that buildings, utilities, and equipment are maintained to support a safe, comfortable, and functional environment for staff, readers, and visitors.

In addition to routine maintenance services, the Division manages the reservation and coordination of the National Library’s auditorium and conference halls for official, educational, and cultural events.

Key Functions

  • Maintenance and repair of buildings, furniture, equipment, and utilities
  • Electrical, plumbing, air-conditioning, and general maintenance services
  • Monitoring and maintenance of safety systems, including fire protection and emergency facilities
  • Coordination of cleanliness, landscaping, and waste management services
  • Management and upkeep of auditoriums, conference halls, and meeting rooms
  • Handling of reservations and scheduling of the auditorium and conference halls for events
  • Coordination of technical support for events, including seating arrangements, lighting, sound systems, and basic equipment
  • Ensuring compliance with safety, security, and operational standards during events and daily operations
  • Reservation of Auditorium/Conference Halls/Smart Classroom
Auditorium

150 seats with/without a VIP room

Conference Room

30 seats

Smart Classroom

30 seating facilities with Smart Board

For reservation: Maintenance Division, 0715116883, mnt@mail.natlib.lk

Through these services, the Maintenance Division plays a vital role in preserving the physical assets of the National Library and facilitating the smooth conduct of academic, professional, and cultural activities hosted at the institution.

Link to Auditorium/Conference Halls/Smart Classroom Reservation form and Calendar

Publication and Book Development Division

The Publication and Book Development Division plays a central role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s publishing ecosystem by supporting authors, publishers, librarians, and the wider reading community. The division implements several national-level programmes aimed at improving the quality of books, promoting creative and academic writing, facilitating access to international publication standards, and encouraging the production and distribution of quality reading materials across the country. Serve as the National Center for ISBN /ISSN& ISMN & ISMN

Workshops and Seminars

The division organizes a variety of one-day, two-day, and three-day workshops targeting individuals interested in the fundamental aspects of book creation. These sessions cover:

  • Book design
  • Editing and proofreading
  • Printing processes
  • Publishing practices

All workshops are conducted by renowned scholars and industry experts, ensuring high-quality learning experiences.

In addition, the division conducts a one-year Diploma in Creative Writing and Communication, offering comprehensive training for those who wish to engage deeply in literary and communication-related fields.

Workshops and Seminars

Purchasing of New Publications Project

This major national initiative supports authors by purchasing printed books directly from them. Many authors face challenges in marketing and distributing their publications, and this project helps bridge that gap by:

  • Purchasing their printed books
  • Distributing them to schools and public libraries, especially in underserved and difficult areas
  • Enhancing public access to quality reading materials

Additionally, the project includes the procurement of state award-winning books, ensuring that excellence in publishing reaches readers across the island.

National Center for ISBN/ISSN/ISSN

The ISSN is the international identification code for periodicals, such as magazines, journals, and newsletters. It contributes to:

  • Enhancing the international visibility of Sri Lankan periodicals
  • Streamlining library and information management
  • Reducing administrative barriers in periodical publication

Since 1993, the National Library and Documentation Services Board has acted as the authorized national center for ISSN issuance. Publishers may obtain ISSNs conveniently through www.isbn.lk.

The ISMN is used to uniquely identify musical publications, particularly those containing music scores. Introduced in Sri Lanka in 1995, this system:

  • Helps distinguish musical works from other publications
  • Supports musicians, music publishers, libraries, and educational institutions

The National Library and Documentation Services Board functions as the national agency responsible for issuing ISMNs. Numbers can be obtained through www.isbn.lk.

The ISBN is an internationally recognized numbering system that assigns a unique identity to each book, facilitating:

  • Easy identification
  • Efficient cataloguing
  • Smooth distribution
  • Better accessibility for publishers, librarians, booksellers, writers, and readers
Introduced to Sri Lanka in 1986, the ISBN system is managed by the Publications and Book Development Division, which serves as the national agency.

Publishers can conveniently obtain ISBNs through the dedicated website www.isbn.lk. This system applies to both printed books and electronic publications (e-books).
Author (Publication) Assistance Project

Established in 1984, the Publication Assistance Project supports both emerging and established writers by providing opportunities to publish and socialize their creative and academic work.

Objectives of the Project
  • Encourage and support new and experienced authors
  • Improve the quality and availability of local publications
  • Promote a strong reading culture
  • Enhance the standards of book production and publishing
  • Provide a formal review and selection process for high-quality manuscripts

Manuscripts are accepted in the following categories:

  • Academic and research
  • Creative writing
  • Youth literature
  • Children’s literature

Selected manuscripts receive publication support after successful completion of a formal evaluation process.

Application Form 2026 (Link to Download) Sinhala/Tamil/English

Strategic Planning Division

The Strategic Planning Division of the National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB) is responsible for guiding the long-term development and sustainable growth of the National Library of Sri Lanka through systematic planning, monitoring, and evaluation.

The Division plays a key role in aligning institutional activities with national policies and development priorities, ensuring the effective use of financial and physical resources, and strengthening accountability and performance management across all divisions.

Key Functions

  • Preparation, implementation, and monitoring of Annual Action Plans in line with institutional objectives
  • Development and periodic review of Five-Year Strategic Plans aligned with national development frameworks
  • Coordination and oversight of procurement planning in collaboration with relevant divisions, ensuring compliance with government regulations
  • Maintaining records on the utilization of allocated funds, including monitoring progress against approved plans
  • Performance monitoring and evaluation of projects, programmes, and divisional activities
  • Compilation of progress reports, performance indicators, and planning-related documentation
  • Providing strategic guidance to divisions to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of services
  • Supporting evidence-based decision-making through data analysis and institutional reporting

Through its strategic planning and monitoring functions, the Division ensures that the National Library and Documentation Services Board advances its mission in a planned, accountable, and results-oriented manner.

Applications are invited for the post of Information Assistant. https://www.natlib.lk/NLDSB/vacancies/

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