South Asian News Network

The Russian Library, located within the premises of the Russian House at Kamal Pokhari in Kathmandu, has been a captivating center for exploring Russian language literature and art for more than 40 years. It offers scholars, writers, and enthusiasts a platform for intellectual exploration. The Library has a pleasant and vibrant environment, as well as friendly, well-organized space with internet connectivity, providing users with a comfortable space for reading and exploring their interests.
Along with that a variety of activities such as seminars, interactive workshops, book discussions, and more are being held at the Russian Library. It actively engages in outreach programs, educational initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations to connect with the community. Through its collaboration with the Nepal-Russia Literary Society and Mitra Kunj, the library hosts a range of literary activities. Furthermore, the library generously donates books on Russian language, literature, magazines, and handbooks. These engagements foster meaningful dialogues, allowing for the exchange of ideas and perspectives that contribute to our comprehension of the world.
All of the literary treasures of the Library are beneficial for both enthusiasts and the general public. It has an extensive collection of books, including multilingual as well as translations of Russian, English, and Nepali literature. An open-access system has been implemented allowing users to access a wide range of resources on Russian History, Geography, Science and Technology, Arts, Economics, Politics, Language and Literature. The library has a huge variety of literary works by renowned Russian authors, spanning from classics to contemporary pieces. Within its collections, one can discover the masterpieces of Tolstoy, Pushkin, Gorky, Gamzatov, Chekhov, Sholokhov, Solzhenitsyn and many more in four distinct languages: Nepali, Russian, English and Hindi. Additionally, there is a diverse range of books available in both Nepali and English literature. Children’s stories, fairy tales and fables are organized into distinct sections.
In addition to photo albums and handbook manuals, the library acquires subscriptions to various publications such as magazines, newspapers and journals. It also prioritizes on digital resources, providing audio-visual recordings of language sessions, documentary films, a selection of e-books, etc.
The library operates from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, Monday through Friday, and remains open on select government holidays. The library welcomes all individuals who are interested in visiting and also presenting a membership scheme, which is available to both Nepali and foreign citizens. To become a library member, individuals are required to provide two copies of their photographs, along with their citizenship or passport, and make a payment of NRS 500 for a year. Members have the privilege of borrowing two books for a duration of 15 days. Moreover, they are allowed to bring their own books and enjoy them alongside the library resources during operating hours.
The library is attracting a diverse range of users, including those who visit regularly for leisurely reading, research projects and others who come to prepare for exams. Consequently, the library experiences a constant influx of users.
According to frequent library visitors, “Reading in the library is more productive compared to reading at home. Seeing other people engrossed in their books encourages me to concentrate as well”. As a result, library has become a central space where individuals can indulge in learning, reading, and pursuing their diverse interests. It is evident that the library strives to maintain inclusivity and diversity by attracting individuals from all age groups and backgrounds.
The library has faced an issue of responding to the changing user needs, emerging formats, and diverse perspectives. However, it has dedicated to meet user expectations through expanding its collection of books in Nepali, English, and Russian literature, as well as other subjects. The library is constantly looking at technological advancements, implementing more interactive programs, and reaching out to the community.
The Russian Library extends a warm invitation to all, embracing visitors with open arms. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the vast realm of literature and culture that this library offers, like a hidden oasis. Whether you are captivated by the timeless masterpieces of Russian literature or eager to embrace the vibrant multicultural traditions, this library is a harmonious blend of languages, literatures, and arts of the world.