Library

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram, Pratapnagar, Jaipur

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram, Pratapnagar is a CBSE-affiliated, co-educational English medium school established in 2010 in Jaipur. The school library stands as an integral pillar of the institution, supporting academic excellence, creativity, and lifelong learning.

The library aims to provide a congenial and intellectually stimulating environment where creative ideas can germinate and innovative learning experiences can flourish. Designed as a peaceful, pleasing, and inviting space, it encourages students to explore, read, research, and develop a sustained reading habit.

Historical Background

The library began its journey in 2010 with a modest collection of 2,120 books, 9 newspapers, and 21 magazines and journals. Over the years, it has grown steadily into a well-equipped knowledge hub with 14,000+ books spanning a wide range of subjects and genres including literature, languages, fiction, autobiographies, biographies, encyclopaedias, folklore, general knowledge, quizzes, dramas, and reference materials.

From January 2015 to 2018, the library was associated with the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL), an international platform that connects school librarians worldwide and promotes student creativity, collaboration, and global engagement.

Library Infrastructure

The library is housed in a spacious and well-organized area comprising:

• Stack Room (Lower Ground Floor):
  11.83 m × 15.03 m = 177.80 sq. m
• Reading Room (Upper Ground Floor):
  10.06 m × 15.03 m = 151.20 sq. m

These spaces are designed to ensure ease of access, comfortable reading, and efficient resource management.

Library Collection

The library has developed a strong core collection of reference and reading materials, including encyclopaedias, dictionaries, atlases, yearbooks, maps, subject reference books, and textbooks. Noteworthy additions include the Encyclopaedia Britannica (32-volume set) and the Encyclopaedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance.

Present Collection Strength

• Books: 14,000+
• Periodicals: 30
• Newspapers: 5
• CDs & DVDs: 100
• Video Stories: 200
• Puzzles: 50
• Maps & Charts: 80
• Globes: 5

A Ready Reference Section is located in the reading room for quick access, while a closed reference section is maintained in the stack room. The library also houses a rich collection of audio-visual and educational aids.

Library Automation and Technology Integration

The library is fully automated with a barcoding system for efficient issue and return of books. Keeping pace with technological advancements and the evolving needs of users, the library has successfully integrated digital services through:

• Four dedicated websites
• One podcast channel
• One mobile-access platform

Recognizing the advantages of Quick Response (QR) codes, the library has adopted QR-based access to various digital and learning resources, ensuring faster, contactless, and convenient information retrieval.

Digital Initiatives and E-Resources

Library Websites and Platforms

Library Website:
https://librarybvbvprtpjpr.wordpress.com

Quizzing Website:
https://quizephillia.home.blog

E-Magazine (Apitara):
https://apitara.wordpress.com

Podcast Channel – “Bhavan’s Vaani”

“Bhavan’s Vaani” is a dedicated podcast channel designed as a creative platform for students and teachers to express their ideas, thoughts, and aspirations. The podcast nurtures creativity, confidence, and communication skills and is shared through QR codes, WhatsApp, and social media platforms.

#DIGISHELF – A Step Towards Smart & Inclusive Learning

In its endeavour to extend library services beyond physical boundaries, the School Library of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram, Pratapnagar proudly introduced #DIGISHELF, an innovative digital library initiative designed to bridge the gap between physical and digital learning resources.

Conceptualized with the vision of anytime–anywhere learning, DigiShelf is a thoughtfully curated digital resource shelf installed outside the library, ensuring easy access for students, teachers, parents, and all members of the school community. Strategically placed in a common approach area, it invites curiosity and encourages self-directed learning even beyond library hours.

Each slot on the DigiShelf is embedded with QR codes that instantly connect users to a wide range of free and open-access e-resources, including:

• Free e-books and audiobooks
• Online learning platforms and educational videos
• National and international digital libraries and reference tools
• Oxford English Dictionary and encyclopaedias
• Previous years’ question papers
• Puzzles, maps, quizzes, and interactive learning materials
• Virtual library tours and curated educational social media links

With a simple scan using a smartphone, learners gain instant access to a world of knowledge—making learning paperless, inclusive, student-friendly, and technology-driven.

#DIGISHELF represents a new-age library concept that promotes digital literacy, independent learning, and responsible use of technology. It aligns seamlessly with the school’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global learning practices. The initiative also serves as an open invitation to other schools and libraries to adopt and adapt this simple yet impactful idea, reaffirming the belief that learning should not be confined by walls or working hours.

Scan. Explore. Learn.

Knowledge is now just a QR away!

Epic Digital Library

The library is subscribed to the Epic Digital Library, which provides a vast collection of age-appropriate eBooks catering to different reading levels and interests of students.

Mobile Access

A mobile-friendly version of the library website has been developed using Linktree, enabling users to access library resources easily on smartphones.

Library Services and Facilities

• Reader Services: Registration, orientation, and assistance in locating resources
• Borrowing Facility: Issue and return of books as per borrowing privileges
• Current Awareness Service: Updates on new arrivals through the website and notice boards
• Reference Service: Support for print and electronic reference resources
• Course Reserves: Teacher-recommended textbooks for in-library use
• Library-cum-Reading Room Facility
• Video Viewing Facility: Access to over 400 educational videos

Competitive Examination Support

The library maintains a dedicated collection of question papers from competitive examinations and Olympiads such as NSO, NCO, IMO, IEO, NTSE, SSTSE, NSTSE, and Green Olympiad for reference and photocopying.

Working Hours

7:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. on all working days

Membership and Access

All students, faculty members, and staff are eligible for library membership. Membership for faculty and staff is automatic upon joining, while students become members upon admission. The library follows an open access system, allowing users to browse and select books freely.

Library Staff

The library is efficiently managed by a dedicated team of professionals:

Dr. Sarwesh Pareek – Librarian
Ku. Shaheen Ansari – Assistant Librarian
Sh. Nawab Khan – Library Attendant