Sections & Divisions
Various activities are carried out in different sections and departments housed in the building. Below are the key sections with their purpose, features and visiting details. Each section is carefully curated to preserve heritage while serving modern readers and researchers.
Newspaper Section
A peaceful, free reading room where newspapers are available on stands for readers. Located on the ground floor for the convenience of senior citizens. Working hours: 7:30 AM to 12:00 noon and 4:30 PM to 8:15 PM (except holidays).
Issue Section
An area for members to exchange books with the help of a computerised issue system. Around 400–500 members avail this facility every day. Photographs of well-known Marathi literateurs line the walls — a delight for connoisseurs of Marathi literature.
Reference Section
A sizable collection of rare books and volumes of historical importance, useful maps, and manuscripts adorn the shelves. This section is a virtual treasure for avid readers, researchers and knowledge seekers. Photocopies of certain documents are provided on demand.
Children’s Section
The library fosters reading habits in children through customized furniture and a large collection of children's literature. Nominal membership fees make this section accessible — it attracts a steady number of young readers.
English & Hindi Sections
Separate dedicated sections for English and Hindi books. Free access is provided to readers who prefer to read within the library space instead of taking books home.
Art Gallery
Excellent paintings by eminent artists — in oil and watercolour — from the times of the erstwhile state are on display. The gallery provides a cultural complement to our literary heritage.
The 'Jahagir' Section
This section houses reports, documents and books pertaining to the pre-independence local rule. It includes books written by Shrimant Narayanrao Babasaheb, the Ichalkaranji Granthmala, and publications related to local history, literateurs and artistes — a rich repertory of information about Ichalkaranji.
In-depth — What to expect in each section
Newspaper Section
A calm, well-lit room intended primarily for casual reading and quick updates. Senior-friendly seating and easy access are provided on the ground floor.
Issue Section
The computerised system improves turnaround and tracking for lending. The curated wall of Marathi literateurs celebrates local literary pride.
Reference Section
Perfect for researchers: historic volumes, maps and manuscripts. Staff can assist with locating materials; photocopies are arranged on request.
Children’s Section
Bright, safe, and playful reading corners with age-appropriate books and storytelling sessions at intervals (check events calendar for timings).
English & Hindi Sections
Well-organised collections offer browsing space for casual reading and study. Reading-in is encouraged to preserve the more delicate volumes.
Art Gallery & Jahagir
Cultural displays and local-history documents give visitors insight into the region’s artistic and administrative past.
Why Choose Apte Wachan Mandir?
Heritage Collection
Rare books, manuscripts and historical records preserved with care.
Community Reach
A hub for students, seniors, and local literary societies across generations.
Research Support
Assistance for scholars, document photocopying and reference access on request.
Quick Facts
- Established: 19th century legacy
- Daily visitors: Hundreds across sections
- Membership: Nominal — inquire at Issue Section
Local historian & frequent visitor
Services & Timings
Reading & Reference
Open to public with reference access. Ask staff for assistance with manuscripts and maps.
Photocopying
Photocopies provided for select documents on request (fees/permissions may apply).
Membership & Issue
Issue Section handles lending — membership details available at the counter.
Children’s Programs
Storytelling and reading sessions are scheduled periodically — see Events calendar.
Plan a Visit
We welcome researchers, students and families. Please contact us for group visits or special access to archives.