The Central Library at IIT Madras is a modern hub of learning and research, supporting one of India’s premier institutes of higher education. Established in 1959, it has grown into a state-of-the-art facility with vast collections of books, journals, digital resources, and advanced technologies like RFID and smart access systems. With dedicated spaces for study, research, and collaboration, the library stands as the intellectual heart of the IIT Madras campus, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing

About Business

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), established in 1959 as an Institute of National Importance, has always been a pioneer in education and research. Alongside its journey, the Central Library has grown into a world-class hub of knowledge, serving students, faculty, and researchers with pride.

What began modestly in 1959 within the Civil Engineering Department soon found its own space in 1965, when the Central Library shifted to an independent building near the Institute’s Main Guest House. To keep pace with growing academic needs, the Millennium Library Building—equipped with state-of-the-art facilities—was constructed right in front of the Administrative Building. Its first phase was inaugurated in 2000 by Prof. R. Natarajan, followed by the second phase in 2004 under Prof. M. S. Ananth’s leadership.

Over the years, the library has continued to evolve. The Digital Knowledge Center, launched in 2004 with 101 computer systems, opened up access to an enormous collection of e-resources. Soon after, a Children’s Library Corner was added in 2005, making the space more inclusive and engaging for young learners.

Today, the IIT Madras Central Library blends tradition with technology. From RFID-based smart systems, ISO-9001:2015 certified services, contactless smart card access, electronic book drops, and automated check-in/check-out to research carrels, a media resource center with 220 seats, student discussion halls, and a modern bindery—the library offers facilities that rival global standards. With its vast multi-format resources and user-friendly digital access, it continues to be the intellectual heartbeat of the IITM campus.

Services / Products

Inter-library loan/document delivery

Obtaining books, theses, or journal articles that are not available in the library's collection.

Book bank facilities

Providing textbooks to economically disadvantaged students for the duration of a semester.

Contact Information

Owner / Founder: S. R. Ranganathan
Contact Person: Central Library Indian Institute
Phone: 4422574951
WhatsApp: 4422574951
Email: librarian@iitm.ac.in
Website: https://cenlib.iitm.ac.in/
Address: Central Library, IITM, Sharav Rd, Indian Institute Of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600036