BookSG NLB Singapore Print Heritage Digitisation

Overview

BookSG is an online digital library platform operated by the National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore, providing free public access to digitised books, periodicals, and other printed materials from Singapore and the surrounding Southeast Asian region. The platform is part of the NLB's broader eResources infrastructure and focuses specifically on print heritage collections.

History and Founding

BookSG was developed as part of the National Library Board's long-term digitisation programme, which aims to preserve and democratise access to Singapore's print heritage. The NLB, established by act of Parliament in 1995, has overseen successive digitisation initiatives, with BookSG serving as the primary portal for its printed heritage collections. The platform aggregates content from the NLB's extensive holdings at the National Library on Victoria Street, Singapore.

Collections and Holdings

BookSG hosts digitised versions of books, magazines, newspapers, and other printed materials published in Singapore and the region from the nineteenth century onward. The collections are particularly rich in English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil language materials, reflecting Singapore's multilingual publishing heritage. For journalism and media researchers, the platform provides access to historical Singaporean periodicals and newspapers not covered by the separate NewspaperSG archive. Holdings include government publications, literary works, community publications, and rare titles documenting Singapore's colonial and post-independence history.

Access and Usage

BookSG is freely accessible online. Users can search, browse, and read digitised materials through the web interface. Some materials may require NLB membership for full access. The platform is integrated with other NLB digital resources including NewspaperSG and the Singapore Memory portal.