Approval to declare the Thanjavur Maharaja Serfojis Sarasvati Mahal Library and Research Centre as a Library of Historical and Cultural Importance and to classify it as an aided Library of the Tamil Nadu Public Libraries Rules, 1950.

**Executive Summary** This document from the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, dated August 4, 2025, concerns the approval to declare the Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji's Sarasvati Mahal Library & Research Centre as a "Library of Historical and Cultural Importance" and to classify it as an aided library. The notification outlines the terms and conditions for the grant in aid and requires the Director of the Library to submit quarterly reports. The effective date of the order is August 1, 2025. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Classification and Approval:** * Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji's Sarasvati Mahal Library & Research Centre is declared a "Library of Historical and Cultural Importance." * It is classified as an aided library under the Tamil Nadu Public Libraries Rules, 1950, Rule 22-A. * **Grant Utilization:** * The grant should be used for: * Research and Publications. * Conservation of Manuscripts. * Library/Museum upkeep and maintenance. * Preservation of Manuscripts. * Digitization of Manuscripts. * Administration. * The grant should also be utilized for library activities as per by-laws and for staff and their salaries. * **Financial and Reporting Requirements:** * Yearly accounts must be audited by the competent authority and submitted to the Government. * Prior approval from the Director of Public Libraries is required for new schemes or improvements. * The Director of the Library must submit quarterly reports on library activities and grant utilization. **Impact Analysis** **Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji's Sarasvati Mahal Library & Research Centre:** * **Impact:** * Recognized as a Library of Historical and Cultural Importance and will receive grants in aid. * The library will have to operate under the terms and conditions specified in the notification. * **Action Required:** * Ensure the grant is used for the specified purposes. * Comply with the auditing requirements. * Obtain prior approval for new schemes and improvements. * Submit quarterly reports on library activities and grant utilization. **Director of Public Libraries:** * **Impact:** * Responsible for providing prior approval for new schemes or improvements planned by the Library. * **Action Required:** * Review and approve or reject proposals for new schemes or improvements. **Government of Tamil Nadu (School Education Department):** * **Impact:** * Responsible for overseeing the utilization of the grant and ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions. * **Action Required:** * Receive and review the yearly audited accounts. * Ensure the Director of the Library complies with reporting requirements.

Key Entities Referenced