The Jaffna Public Library was destroyed on June 01st 1981 (May 31st 1981 Midnight). It was considered, one of the best libraraies in South Asia. It had a cultural heritage of 97,000 priceless books, and 150 centuries' old Tamil manuscripts, which are irreplaceable. The old Jaffna Public Library was functioning on Hospital Road from 1934 to 1936. In 1936 it moved to Main Street. Later on March 29th 1953, foundation stone was laid to built a library in the town hall compound. And the ceremonial opening of the libraray took place on 11th October 1959.