When the University opened, there were many shortcomings due to lack of funds. To open the library of the University, the main library of the Pirivena was permitted to be acquired. Simultaneously, Rev.Kiriwaththuduwe Pannasara, Yakkaduwe Pragnarama, Kotahene Pannakeeththi, Naththndiye Pannakara, Bambarende Siri Seevali and lay alumni of the Pirivena like Julius de Lanerolle (a lexicographer) donated books and rare dictionaries of different languages from their private collections to the new University.

The books from the libraries of S.D. de Lanerolle (Antiquarian bookseller, writer and an authority on Ceylon Books,) K.D. de Lanerolle (The first Supdt. of Exams of Vidyalankara University)   Kenneth M. de Lanerolle (Principal of  Kingswood, Wesley & Carey Colleges) and  other members of the later generations of the Lanerolle family were added to the rare book collection of the University library. That “de Lanerolle Trust Collection” consists of books ranging from Ceylon Books, JRAS and JAAR , Oriental Languages, English Language and Literature, World History and The Ancient World, Iranology. Buddhism and World Religions, Philosophy etc.

Lanerolle family contributed much towards the collections in the University of Kelaniya Museum as well. Maps, flags, rugs, period furniture, plates, cutlery and crockery, Sterling Silver and EPNS items, gold-glazed ceramic and porcelainware, masks, household articles etc. take a special place in the collection. They also added many glass and other display cabinets and several indoor fountains to the collection.