Services
Main Services
Reading and Reference Services
- On-site access to books, journals, newspapers, government publications, and reference materials.
- Guidance on the use of OPAC (Koha catalogue) and information resources.
- Assistance from professional library staff for reference inquiries.
- Reading spaces available, including co-working areas.
- Support for researchers, postgraduate students, and scholars.
- Access to specialized collections and reference sources.
- Assistance with bibliographic and information searches.
- Guidance on responsible and effective information use and user awareness.
Information Services for Visually Impaired Readers
The National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB), in collaboration with the Daisy Lanka Foundation, commenced a dedicated information service for visually handicapped readers at the National Library. The primary objective of this service is to facilitate equitable access to information by providing specialised resources and facilities tailored to their needs. The service includes a growing collection of audiobooks and specialised databases relevant to visually impaired users. It was officially inaugurated on 20 October 2014 at the National Library and plans to expand this service to other libraries across the country through mutual agreements in the future.
Reference Service
The Reference Service supports users by providing access to the entire National Library collection, based on individual information needs. Library collections are housed on the ground, first, second floors and fourth floor, with reader facilities available on all three levels.
Inquiry Service
The National Library responds to a wide range of inquiries from readers and researchers, including:
- Bibliographic inquiries (author, title, subject, etc.)
- Factual or quick-reference inquiries
- Subject-based inquiries
- Research guidance and literature support
Inter-Library Loan Service
Through its Inter-Library Loan (ILL) Service, the National Library extends access to information
resources to researchers, academics, and the general public across Sri Lanka.
If required material is unavailable in a local library, it may be obtained from the National Library
via inter-library loan. Loans are extended only to libraries, not to individuals, and are currently
facilitated among public, university, and special libraries.
Participating libraries must sign an Inter-Library Loan Agreement prior to borrowing. Materials
available for loan include monographs, periodicals, and government publications, excluding
rare and unique items.
ILL Form
Current Awareness Service (CAS)
The Current Awareness Service keeps users informed about new acquisitions and recent additions to the National Library collection. This service primarily operates through:
- Monthly acquisition lists
- Lists of new arrivals
- Subject-based inquiries
- Newsletters, bulletins, and brochures
Information is disseminated regularly to ensure users remain updated on newly available resources.
Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI)
The SDI Service is designed to support researchers with specific and ongoing information needs. User profiles are created based on subject interests and contact details. Relevant and current information is selectively disseminated to individuals or small groups on a regular basis. Information support includes abstracts, indexes, contents pages, literature searches, and quick reference materials, delivered promptly to users.
Reprographic Services
The National Library provides a range of reprographic services, including:
- Photocopying
- Scanning
- Copies of electronic resources
- Computer printouts
Information Repackaging Service
The Library maintains a collection of Information Repackages compiled on various subjects, particularly beneficial for students’ assignments and project work. These curated information sets are widely used by students and researchers.
User Education Service
The National Library conducts user education programmes throughout the year to familiarise users with its resources and services. These include:
- Training on searching the computerised catalogue and locating collections by floor.
- Guided library tours for schoolchildren, university students, and institutional groups.
- Island-wide seminars and lectures on National Library resources and services.
- Regular exhibitions showcasing library collections.
- Public awareness initiatives through brochures, booklets, posters, and newspaper advertisements.
Inquiries may be submitted in person, in writing, by telephone, fax, or email, and responses are provided free of charge through appropriate communication channels.