The modernisation project of the Sufia Kamal National Public Library at Dhaka’s Shahbagh lies incomplete even after more than three years since the work began in 2022.

As such, the library, once a vibrant space for readers, has largely been devoid of activity for a prolonged period.

The foundation of the Sufia Kamal National Public Library was laid in 1954 at the present site of Dhaka University Central Library. It was later relocated to its current location in Shahbagh in 1978.

The modernisation project was originally scheduled for completion in December 2024. However, it could not be finished on time, as physical work began only in September 2022.

A design of the national library.

According to the officials of Department of Public Libraries, so far 65 percent of the work has been completed.

“There have been delays in removing old structures and felling trees, design completion and vetting process through the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), and appointment of a consultant. As such, it was not possible to begin physical construction within the scheduled timeframe, resulting in the need for additional time to complete the project,” said Khalid Mohammad Saifullah, senior librarian and deputy project director of the department.

The project’s cost, initially estimated at Tk 524 crore, has also risen to Tk 561 crore due to addition of new components and an increase in the US Dollar exchange rate.

A revised proposal has been made to extend the project timeline by two more years till December 2027, and to increase the total cost further to around Tk 620 crore, incorporating additional features such as aesthetic artworks. The proposal is now waiting to be placed in the ECNEC meeting shortly, said Saifullah.

The project cost has increased due to revised estimates by the PWD, inclusion of a Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), reallocation in civil works, additional electro-mechanical requirements (including HVAC, sound, lighting, and lifts), introduction of a cultural artwork package, adjustments in furniture costs, and the extended project duration leading to higher operational and consultancy expenses, he also said.

He noted that design-related challenges further contributed to the delay. A connecting bridge between two high-rise buildings, along with library facilities, was initially planned at a height of 60 metres. It has now been proposed to reduce the height to 40 metres, as constructing a 60-metre steel structure is highly challenging given Bangladesh’s environmental and structural constraints.

According to the design, the library complex will be divided into two separate nine-storey buildings. One will face south, on the site where the old library building once stood. A glass plaza will be constructed on the northern side, adjacent to the museum complex, which will function as a digital library, Saifullah said.

There will also be a plaza between the two buildings, with a cafeteria at the western end, and three auditoriums underground -- including the Shawkat Osman Auditorium which will be reconstructed -- to host public events, he also said.

The existing pyramid-shaped stairs in front of the National Library will be replaced with long, parallel stairs similar to those of the original structure. The main complex will also include a 10-storey residential building for library staff, said another official of the department.

Around 3,00,000 books have been relocated to the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) building, where limited library services are currently being provided.

“In the new building, around 1,500 people will be able to use the library at a time, while the total capacity will be about 5,000,” Saifullah said.

Meanwhile, urban planners criticised the decision to demolish the old structure.

“Although the modernisation will increase the library’s capacity, we will lose its historical significance. These buildings needed to be protected for sustainability and preservation of our history and heritage,” said Adil Mohammed Khan, executive director of the Institute for Planning and Development.

The authorities could acquire new land and construct new public libraries instead of demolishing the old ones, he added.