🎉 Andhra Pradesh Library Association | Latest News | APLA
Our Heritage & Legacy
Andhra Desa Grantha Bhandara Sangham – India's First Library Association
Established on 10th April, 1914, Andhra Desa Grantha Bhandara Sangham is the first library association in India, later renamed as Andhra Pradesh Library Association. In the inaugural meeting at Vijayawada, the great poet laureate Dr. Chilakamarthy Lakshmi Narasimham Pantulu gave an inspirational message, envisioning knowledge as a liberating force for all.
“The Sun’s light brightens everything;
So shall knowledge dispel darkness
And brighten every life.
Air gives life to all and is freely accessible;
So shall knowledge be within the reach of all,
Breathing life’s vigour into them.
Clear water quenches the thirst of all;
So shall knowledge satisfy
The curiosity of all the curious,
And the hunger of the hungry for it.”
— Dr. Chilakamarthy Lakshmi Narasimham Pantulu
110+
Years of Legacy
1000+
Associated Members
Our Visionary Pillars
Preserving heritage, empowering minds — since 1914
First Library Movement
Pioneering library movement in India, Andhra Desa Grantha Bhandara Sangham set the foundation for public library networks and knowledge accessibility across the nation.
Knowledge for All
Inspired by the poetic vision of Dr. Chilakamarthy, we ensure that knowledge – like air, water, and sunlight – remains free, open, and accessible to every seeker.
Literary & Cultural Legacy
From historic Vijayawada meeting to modern digital era, we've fostered lifelong learning, preserved Telugu literary treasures, and championed library sciences.
