The Government Public Library in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), also known as the Allahabad Public Library or the Thornhill Mayne Memorial, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. Founded during the British colonial era, it has served various purposes and remains a significant cultural landmark.

Foundation and Early History

1. Establishment (1864): The library was established in 1864, making it one of India’s oldest libraries. Initially, it functioned as a reading room primarily for British officials and residents in Allahabad, then a prominent administrative center.
2. Architectural Origins: The original building, designed by Richard Roskell Bayne, showcased the distinctive Scottish Baronial Revival style. Bayne also designed other notable structures in Allahabad.

A Period of Political Significance

• Seat of the Legislative Assembly: For a time, the library building served as the seat of the legislative assembly of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) when Allahabad was the capital. This period underscores the building’s role in the region’s political history.

Relocation and the Thornhill Mayne Memorial

1. Relocation to Alfred Park (1879): In 1879, the library was relocated to its present location within Alfred Park, now known as Chandrashekhar Azad Park. This park holds its own historical significance as the site where revolutionary Chandrashekhar Azad attained martyrdom.
2. Thornhill Mayne Memorial: The building is also a memorial to Cuthbert Bensley Thornhill, a former Commissioner of Allahabad. The construction was funded by Mr. Mayne and completed around 1870 at a cost of approximately ₹94,222.

Architectural Style and Features

• Scottish Baronial Revival: The library’s architecture is a striking example of the Scottish Baronial style, characterized by:
  • Granite and sandstone construction with sharp pillars and turrets.
  • Structural polychromy (the use of different colored stones).
  • Lofty towers and arcaded cloisters.

Collections and Cultural Importance

1. Extensive Collections: The library houses a vast and diverse collection of books, periodicals, manuscripts, and rare documents in various languages, including English, Hindi, Urdu, and Bangla.
2. Historical Significance: Its archives contain valuable historical records, such as blue books, parliamentary papers, ancient manuscripts, and government publications dating back to the 19th century.
3. A Legacy of Knowledge: The Government Public Library has played a vital role in promoting literacy and preserving knowledge in the region, solidifying its status as a significant cultural and historical landmark in Prayagraj.