Defence Central Library (DCL)

Administrator DHA Brig Zubair Ahmed inaugurated the newly renovated/upgraded building of Defence Central Library (DCL) in a simple and graceful ceremony held at the library complex. DCL has recently undergone a massive uplifting, renovation and up-gradation process aimed at modernization, improvement and expansion of the library facilities. 

The renovated and upgraded library building is a symbol of enlightened progress in an atmosphere greatly dictated by intolerance and fanaticism. The inauguration ceremony was a momentous and epic event as it represented a new era of modernity in Pakistan. DCL it its essence represents progress, knowledge, information and literary excellence and all these traits constitute the foundation of intellectual progress. 

DHA attaches great importance to the promotion of knowledge and education in society and its multiple projects, including several schools throughout the city, are a testament to this commitment. DCL, established in 1991 as a centre for excellence and intellectual growth of society, has long been a haven for students of all ages and academic backgrounds to access the multiple resources the library houses. With a dearth of libraries in Karachi, dwindling resources and a lack of patronage from the government, organizations and individuals, DCL however always practiced an open-door policy for those who wished to benefit from its multiple resources, or just enjoy a few hours of solitude within its walls. 

Over the years, DCL emerged as a leading and most sought after library of the metropolis. However, there was a need to further upgrade/modernize DCL according to the changing trends and contemporary requirements of modern libraries of the world. The present Administrator of DHA Brig Zubair Ahmed took charge of Office in Oct 2014. The Administrator on his very first visit to DCL decided to upgrade and modernize the library complex so as to make it an icon of DHA.  A history has been created as the new DCL complex has come up as a unique facility that will not only provide most conducive and intellectually stimulating reading and learning environments to its members but will also act as a catalyst in promoting education and research orientation reading habits in society.

With this aim a determined and versatile effort for modernization/ renovation of library was unleashed. The prudent guidance, inspiration and motivation provided by the Administrator at each stage of the project remained the galvanizing force which was instrumental in completing the ambitious project with a remarkable success.

DCL has undergone a massive renovation, refurbishment and modernization process at a cost of approx 83 Million in a record period of six months time. The iconic project include elegant architectural designing, aesthetically conceived interior finishing, installation of modern lighting system, provision of enhanced learning resources, new furniture and carpeting etc. Different facilities the library initially offered have been upgraded, such as more secure locker rooms for students, a larger database online resource, as well as an extensive range of resource material for different fields of study. The dynamic initiative has made DCL a jewel in the crown of most advanced and the best libraries of Karachi. 

The completion of the magnificent renovation and upgrade project also makes DCL the first library in Karachi to be access friendly for the differently able. The design of the structure connects the main library building with the car parking through a wheelchair ramp. DCL would serve as a catalyst in promoting education and research-oriented reading habits in society. 

The painstaking effort of the engineers, contractors, Secretary DCL as well as the library staff for being present at every step of the challenging project and supporting it till its completion is indeed commendable.

DCL is a gift to the people of Karachi from DHA. DCL as a repository of knowledge and culture is poised to bring an intellectual renaissance in society and has the potential in its essence to develop a progressive, enlightened and civilized nation.