Our Mission

The specific mission of the Panjab Digital Library PDL is to locate, digitize, preserve, collect and make accessible the accumulated wisdom of the Panjab region, without distinction as to script, language, religion, nationality, or other physical condition.

What inspired the creation of PDL?

The rich heritage of Panjab was rapidly dwindling and degenerating due to the destructive effects of time, age and human negligence. Many rare manuscripts or invaluable pieces of history are destroyed during wars, invasions, and natural disasters. The idea of digitizing texts is the best possible solution to this loss of information.

Our History

By the grace of Guru Nanak Sahib, the Panjab Digital Library (PDL) began operations in 2003 as a tiny organization with a gigantic mission on its hands. Starting with one agenda, one desktop, and one employee, we have come a long way since then.

The project emerged from the concerns shared by a group of individuals for the increasing disappearance and loss of heritage of the Sikhs and Panjab. Much has vanished whether through the passage of time, accident or political unrest. Despite the losses, it was evident that much could be saved or was worth saving. Preservation was our primary motivation and impetus with a focus on archiving "endangered" manuscripts and artifacts to preserve the heritage, culture and language of Panjab.

A digitization project, small or large, requires a big budget. Without any initial infrastructure, expertise or funds to support the project, (PDL) has not only survived, but excelled through sheer motivation and perseverance. With each passing day, we grew in skill and competence, experience and number. Our library acquired the necessary digital equipment, and we began not only the seemingly daunting talk of digitizing material, but also developing out skills at data management and archiving.

We have achieved numerous milestones and witnessed exponential growth in our digitization output and resources. We are continuing to grow and evolve, learning to find better ways to reduce our operational costs, and further hone and refine the digitization process.

Finally, we seek to promote an entirely new culture of awareness where you the reader can become an active participant in safeguarding and preserving the cultural treasures of Panjab.

Our Goals

The objectives of the Panjab Digital Library USA include but are not limited to:

1. Addressing heritage loss due to environment, ignorance and destruction
2. Saving and sharing invaluable treasures to connect people globally
3. Providing continual access free at www.panjabdigilib.org for US citizens and national whose ancestors come from this region can learn more about their heritage.

Visit us at www.panjabdigilib.org