The palm leaf manuscripts are considered as valuable cultural heritage, recording history, indigenous knowledge, and wisdom of the ancestors. The palm leaf manuscript collection of the library, University of Sri Jayewardenepura is one of the oldest collections. This collection consists of various subjects such as Buddhism, Indigenous Medicine, Veterinary Science, Rituals (Shanthikarma), Astrology, History and Language. They were written in Pali, Sinhala and Sanskrit languages. Some palm leaf manuscripts were written in Sinhala and Sanskrit. These palm-leaf manuscripts are dating back to 18th and 19th century A.D.
The library is actively involved in the preservation of palm leaf manuscripts and provides facilities for all University of Sri Jayewardenepura library members and other outside students, scholars, and researchers to study palm leaf manuscripts upon request. It is advisable to contact the Librarian or Senior Assistant Librarian (Preservation & Conservation) in advance to get permission and access to this valuable manuscripts collection.
For external researchers, it is necessary to provide identification or a letter of proof from their university or research institution and they should obtain temporary library membership after paying the relevant fees.
- Palm leaf manuscripts readers (local) Rs. 500.00 per day
- Palm leaf manuscripts readers (foreign) USD 25 per day
