Library Day of Kyrgyzstan (27/05)

Considering the great contribution of libraries in Kyrgyzstan to the development of education, science, culture, information of the republic and the need to further increase their role in the life of society, May 27 was declared the Day of Libraries of Kyrgyzstan (Kyrgyzstandin Kitepkanalar Kunu) by Decree of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic № 308 of June 17, 2008.

For the first time, more than 2.5 thousand library workers celebrated their professional holiday in 2009, of which 88% were women.

This date coincides with the opening day of May 27, 1902 in Kyrgyzstan of the first public library.

Today, there are more than a thousand libraries in the republic, whose services in Kyrgyzstan are used annually by over 1 million readers. The republic's library collection amounts to over 19 million library units.

Preserving traditions, the libraries of the Republic are successfully developing in new social and economic conditions. They harmoniously joined the new form of statehood of Kyrgyzstan, proving their necessity as centers of science, culture and education. Libraries preserve and enhance the cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan in its national interests. The contribution of libraries to the promotion and popularization of cultural values of Kyrgyzstan and the revival of interest in the history of the country are invaluable.

By the way, May 27 is also celebrated in Russia as Library Day, and this date is timed to coincide with the founding day of the first state public library of Russia, — Imperial Public Library, now — of the Russian National Library, by Empress Catherine II in 1795. This day was officially established in Russia in 1995.

Library — is one of the main sources of information, ranging from ancient tomes to Internet access. This holiday is celebrated not only by library workers, but also by everyone who cannot imagine their life without a book, who is related to reading, knowledge, and enlightenment.

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