National Medical Library delhi

The National Medical Library in its current form came in existence in April 1966. The library, probably the largest in the country, provides reference and information material catering to all aspects of medical and health science. Consultancy guides in medical, paramedical and allied fields fill its abounding shelves. The library houses over 3 lakh volumes of medical literature including books, journals and periodicals dating back to the 1970s. The library is also part of the HELLIS network set up by the WHO in Asia.

Mission

The National Medical Library aims to provide wide and efficient library and information services to the health science (HS) professionals in India. It functions under the administrative control of the Directorate General of Health Services.

Services:

Reprography Service

Photocopies of available literature are provided for personal use. A private photocopying operator has been installed in the library who provides the service at nominal rate. Presently it is 0.27 paisa per page for A4 size copy. The request for photocopies from outstation must accompany payment @ Re 1/- per page by crossed Indian Postal Order/Bank Draft drawn in favour of Director General of Health Services payable at New Delhi. Single copies of each reference only are provided for personal use of the applicant. Multiple copies will not be provided.

Lending Service

Borrowing of books is allowed to registered members only. All doctors and teachers working in government hospitals and medical colleges in Delhi can become borrowing members. Private practitioners who are residents of Delhi can also become borrowing member by depositing a refundable security deposit of Rs. 5000/-. Only one book is issued at a time.

Reference and Consultation Service

The library remains open on 359 days of the year and beyond normal office hours (0900-2000 hrs during March-October and 0900-1900 hrs during November-February). It provides free access to all HS professionals for reference and consultation. It is one of the heavily used libraries in New Delhi. Over 200 users including PG students, teachers, research scholars, practicing doctors/surgeons, health administrators, drug manufacturers, pharmacists visit the library everyday. Library also receives a number of reference queries and provides quick reference service on telephone.