Sherab Gyasched Tsal Library
SHERAB GYASCHED TSAL LIBRARY
Central Institute of Buddhist Studies
(Deemed to be University)
Leh, UT Ladakh
Introduction:
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Ladakh region, the Sherab Gyasched Tasal Library of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh stands as a beacon of knowledge and cultural heritage in the UT of Ladakh. With its extensive collection of books, resources, and cultural artifacts, the library serves as a vital hub for locals and visitors alike. There are three section in the library General Section, Sungbum/Tibetan Section, and Reference Section. The CIBS Library has not only become a sanctuary for literature enthusiasts, but also a center for preserving and promoting Ladakhi heritage. Let’s delve into the significance of this remarkable Library.
Preserving Ladakhi and Himalayan Buddhist Culture:
One of the primary objectives of the library is to safeguard and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh and Himalayan Buddhist culture. The library actively collects and preserves a wide range of Ladakhi and Himalayan Buddhist literature, including traditional folk tales, historical accounts, and religious scriptures. By doing so, it ensures that future generations have access to these invaluable resources, helping them understand and appreciate their cultural roots.
Educational Empowerment:
Education is at the core mission of CIBS library. It plays a crucial role in promoting literacy and providing a platform for intellectual growth in the community. The library’s collection encompasses a diverse range of subjects, including Buddhism, Tibetology, Himalayan Studies, History, and Philosophy. Students and researchers can explore these resources to enhance their knowledge and pursue academic excellence.
Library Collection:
The library has a total collection of 38301 books and over 33 subscriptions to national and international journals. The library has impressive collection, such as rare xylography of Bhoti texts and documents related to Buddhist philosophy, history, culture, and literature. Alongside Bhoti, the collection includes books in Sanskrit, Pali, Hindi, Urdu, English and other languages. Some of the significant collections in the library include;
1. Tibetan Buddhist Canon:
a. Kangyur (translation of Buddha’s words) such as Narthang, Dege, Lhasa/Zhol, Stok Palace, Tshalpa, Pedurma, and Peking (hand copied gold-ink edition Tibetan Dragon Sutra by the Qing Dynasty from the National Palace Museum, Taiwan)
b. Tengyur (translation of treatises). There are three editions of Tengyur in the library, such as Narthang, Dege, and Pedurma.
2. Tibetan Medicines: An extraordinary collection of classical texts, 61 Vols.
3. Molam Grand Tibetan Dictionary, 223 Vols
Library Services:
The library provides a range of services to its users, including references and research assistance and photocopying services. The library is fully computerised, has internet connectivity, and offers Wi-Fi to its users, providing them with the necessary resources to conduct their research and studies. The library also has audio and video materials, which include documentaries, lectures, and interviews related to Buddhism and other related topics. We installed central heating system to improve the comfort of our users during the harsh winter months in Ladakh. We have added new study tables and chairs in the Sungbum Section to create a more conducive environment for studying.
Library Outreach:
The library also renders technical advice and provides practical training to apprentices as volunteers. Apart from that, the library is also visited by many research scholars and distinguished guests from other parts of the country and abroad.
Conclusion:
The library stands as a remarkable institution, serving as a repository of knowledge and custodian of Ladakhi and Himalayan Buddhist culture. Its dedication to preserving traditional literature and promoting multilingualism to meet the needs of its users is much acknowledged. It’s a cultural oasis in the desert of knowledge in Leh. As it continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, the library remains a vital pillar of education and cultural enrichment for its students and the people of Ladakh.
Contact us:
Office Address: Sherab Gyasched Tsal Library
Central Institute of Buddhist Studies
(Deemed to be University)
Choglamsar-194104, Leh
UT Ladakh
Email id: cibslibrary@gmail.com
- Centrally Heated Facilities
- Thousands of collection of books