Location and Affiliation
Santhom Library, situated in Vadavathoor, Kottayam, Kerala, India, is an integral part of the Pontifical Oriental Institute of Religious Studies (POIRS) at St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary. Recognized as one of the largest libraries in Kerala, it has been a cornerstone for academic and intellectual pursuits since its establishment in 1962.

Our Journey
Santhom Library began its remarkable journey in 1962, the same year St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary was blessed. Starting modestly within the seminary’s newly constructed building, the library operated with limited space and facilities. With generous financial support from the Vatican Congregation for the Oriental Churches, the library expanded its collection of essential source books, laying the foundation for its future growth. A significant milestone was achieved on July 3, 2004, when the library was relocated to its own dedicated building, marking a new chapter in its evolution.

Our Collection and Digital Transformation
Today, we have a rich collection of over 100,000 books and 200 national and international journals, making it a treasure trove of knowledge. From the 2021-2022 academic year, the library has subscribed to the ATLA Religion Database, granting online access to more than 800 international journals.

The library has embraced digital innovation, offering:

• Digital library catalogue access for easy resource discovery.
• Barcoding for all books, streamlining organization and borrowing.
• Digital library cards for students and guest users.

Facilities and Services
The library operates from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM on all working days, welcoming staff, students, and guest scholars. Its spacious Wi-Fi-enabled reference library and reading areas provide a serene and conducive environment for study and research. Guest students from neighboring faculties and institutions also benefit from these facilities.

The library remains committed to growth, continuously updating its collection with new books and journal subscriptions to meet the evolving academic and research needs of its users.

Vast Collection and Accessibility
With a collection exceeding 100,000 books, including rare manuscripts and periodicals, Santhom Library serves as a vital resource for students, researchers, and scholars. Open to the public, it stands as a beacon of learning and exploration.

Diverse Sections and Special Collections
The library is thoughtfully organized into various sections to cater to diverse interests and disciplines:

• General Section: A wide range of books spanning history, literature, philosophy, and religion.
• Philosophy Section: In-depth resources on subjects such as logic, ethics, and metaphysics.
• Theology Section: Comprehensive materials on biblical studies, church history, and systematic theology.
• Eastern Theology: Good collection of books and journals related to Eastern Theology, Syriac Theology and St. Thomas Christian Churches.

In addition, the library boasts several special collections, including:

• Rare books and manuscripts.
• Historical maps.
• An extensive archive of periodicals.

Modern Resources and Technology
Keeping pace with the digital era, Santhom Library provides access to a variety of electronic resources:

• Databases for academic research.
• E-books and e-journals for on-the-go learning.

A Resource for All
Santhom Library is more than a repository of books; it is a community resource fostering education and intellectual growth. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or a lifelong learner, the library’s rich collection and welcoming atmosphere make it a haven for discovery.

Our Commitment
Santhom Library stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts and generosity of many, fostering an environment of serious study, research, and intellectual exploration. We are deeply grateful to all who have contributed to its steady growth and remain committed to enhancing its offerings to serve the academic community.

Santhom Library is jointly managed by the Pontifical Oriental Institute of Religious Studies (POIRS), Paurastya Vidyāpīṭham, and St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary. Daily operations are overseen by Rev. Fr. Librarian, supported by a dedicated team of four full-time staff members and a group of seminarians who assist with upkeep and maintenance. Additionally, the Library Council ensures efficient administration and governance.

Fr. Dominic Vechoor [ Fr. Librarian ]	Fr. Thomas Vadakkel [ Representative, Faculty Council ]
Fr. Pauly Maniyattu [ President, POIRS ]	Fr. Thomas Karintholil [ Finance Officer, Seminary]
Fr. Scaria Kanniyakonil [ Rector ]	Fr. Francis Pittappillil [ Finance Officer, POIRS ]
Fr. Thomas Kuzhuppil [ Vice President ]	Fr. Roy Joseph Kaduppil [ Director, Institute of Eastern Canon Law (IECL) ]
Fr. Varghese Kochuparampil [ Dean of Faculty ]	Fr. Johnson Neelanirappel [ Director, Institute of Philosophy ]
Fr. Xavier Maramattom [ Institute of Philosophy ]	Fr. George Thekkekara [ Institute of Eastern Canon Law ]

Library Team

Brothers

Chazoor Amal	Padinjarekara Rony
Pulickal Jerry	Thattuthara Sebin
Kanamkombil Jes	Parappanal Lukose
Murattupoovathinkal Joseph	Palliparambil Jeswin
Pulickal Anas	Edattu Nirmal
Kodimarathumoottil Jestin	Puthiyaparambil Paul
Vazheparambil James	Thekkeyil Antony
Kulanthikarayil Subin	Vattakanayil Thomas
Chengazhasseril Robert	Subin S
Kuzhivilakam Alex	Vellaringattu Mobin
Malayil Seno	Ashin Edathumprayil
Manimalakunnel Sebastian