A nine-storey glass-fronted public library opened in 2010 and one of the largest in Asia. Its reading rooms, children's section and rooftop views are open to the public; call 044-22201011 to confirm hours and bag rules before going.
Anna Centenary Library is a nine-storey glass-fronted public library on Gandhi Mandapam Road in Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Opened in 2010, it is one of the largest libraries in Asia and one of the city's most striking modern buildings, with a curved glass facade and a bright atrium that contrast with the older colonial landmarks elsewhere in Chennai. It is named after C. N. Annadurai, a former chief minister of Tamil Nadu.
The library holds a very large collection of books, journals and periodicals across subjects, with sections in Tamil, English and other languages. Each floor has a different focus, and spacious reading rooms, study areas and computer sections give the building a calm and modern feel. A children's section has colourful furnishings and picture books, and there are areas for competitive-exam preparation, which attract many students. Some floors have views over the surrounding greenery, and the upper levels and rooftop offer views toward the city. The building's design includes natural light, wide staircases and lifts, which make it comfortable to explore.
A visit typically takes one to two hours, depending on how long visitors spend browsing the collections. Casual visitors can see the atrium, the children's section and several floors, though the library is a working institution and silence is expected in reading areas. Bag rules apply, with bags usually left at a cloakroom, and visitors should call 044-22201011 to confirm opening hours and rules before going, since timings and access can change. Weekday mornings tend to be quiet, while afternoons and weekends draw more students and families.
The library is reached by app cab or auto from Adyar or Guindy, and the area is well served by city buses. Visitors should dress comfortably, keep phones silent, and avoid photographing readers without permission. Photography rules may restrict some areas, so staff should be asked before using a camera. The nearby Theosophical Society and Guindy National Park make a good pairing for the same day.
| Address | Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600085, India |
|---|
Location
Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600085, India
13.0106, 80.2347 View on map
Highlights
- Nine-storey glass-fronted building opened in 2010
- Bright central atrium with reading rooms
- Children's section with picture books
- Upper-floor and rooftop views of the city
Tips for visiting
- Call 044-22201011 to confirm hours and bag rules
- Expect to leave bags at a cloakroom
- Keep phones silent and voices low
- Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience
- Ask before photographing readers or restricted areas
- Combine with the Theosophical Society or Guindy National Park
When to visit
Weekday mornings are quietest. Afternoons and weekends bring more students and families.
Accessibility
The building has lifts and wide staircases and is designed for accessibility. Wheelchair users can reach most floors, though visitors should confirm facilities by phone.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Anna Centenary Library take?
One to two hours is enough to see the atrium, several floors and the children's section.
Is it open to the public?
Yes, the reading rooms and children's section are open to the public, but call to confirm hours and rules.
Is photography allowed?
Photography may be restricted in reading areas, so ask staff before using a camera.
Is it worth it for kids?
The children's section is a popular feature for families.