The main areas of the Library’s activity include the formation of collections of books and other types of documents to create information resources; their preservation; the implementation of a comprehensive system of traditional and electronic catalogs, card indexes, and bibliographic tools reflecting these collections; and the continuous development of this system to ensure broad and effective access to the collections for readers.
Our Collection. The Library’s holdings include rare works in various languages published between the 16th and 19th centuries, as well as in the early 20th century. The collection is predominantly composed of literature on economics, politics, state-building, law, philosophy, statistics, history, literary studies, and linguistics. The Library’s periodicals collection comprises journals, newspapers, and other serial publications printed both in the Republic and abroad. At present, particular attention is being paid to expanding the collection through electronic publications.
Library Automation System. Special importance is attached to the application of modern information technologies at the Library. A local computer network has been established, and Internet access has been provided. Readers using portable computers may also connect to the Internet via a wireless network in the Library’s reading room. The Library has implemented the full package of the latest version of the IRBIS Library Automation System (IRBIS64+). This system ensures the automation of all library processes, from collection development to the circulation of materials. It also enables users to access full-text databases prepared by the Library. In addition, any Internet user can access the Library’s Electronic Catalog and other electronic resources through its official website.
Reference and Bibliographic Services. The Library has compiled alphabetical and systematic catalogs reflecting literature in Azerbaijani, Russian, and other languages. Since 2003, information on all books acquired by the Library has been entered into the Electronic Catalog (EC). Since 2004, bibliographic descriptions of the most significant materials from periodicals added to the collection have also been included in a separate database within the EC. The Library also prepares and publishes bibliographic guides of various types. The Electronic Catalog and electronic versions of bibliographic publications are accessible via the Library’s official website. The Library delivers comprehensive reference and bibliographic information services to its users. Bibliographic information services are also provided to specific user groups via email.
In addition to traditional library and bibliographic services, the Library offers Internet access, hosts various presentations and press conferences, and provides services such as scanning, photocopying, lamination, and others.