The newly constructed building of the historic Rajshahi Public Library was inaugurated on Monday at its permanent premises in the Miyapara area of the city.

President of the library and Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhtar formally inaugurated the building at a ceremony held on the premises.

Speaking on the occasion, she said that Rajshahi Public Library is a traditional institution for education, culture and intellectual activities in the region. She expressed hope that the new building would help expand its activities and inspire the younger generation to develop reading habits.

According to historical records, the library was established before 1866 by Raja Ananda Nath Roy of the Natore royal family. It later attained its full form in 1884 after receiving land and a building.

General Secretary of the library Golam Maola said the library now houses around 34,000 books and has long served as an important centre of knowledge for students, researchers and general readers in Rajshahi.

Among others present at the programme were Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Tuktuk Talukdar, Principal of Homeopathic College Dr Md Anisur Rahman, Principal of Shah Makhdum College SM Rezaul Islam, editors and other local dignitaries.