TASHKENT, Uzbekistan: Libraries are not just repositories of books but vital institutions that foster education, preserve cultural heritage, and cultivate intellectual growth within communities. In Uzbekistan, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the role of libraries in enhancing national intellectual potential has been underscored repeatedly. The government’s commitment to education and cultural development has led to significant strides in promoting literacy and expanding access to knowledge across the country.
Education has become a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s state policy, with a clear focus on modernizing educational systems, enhancing educational quality, and ensuring educational opportunities for all citizens. This commitment extends to fostering a culture of reading among the population, as evidenced by the adoption of comprehensive measures outlined in Presidential Decrees and government resolutions.
The 2017 Presidential Decree on developing publishing and book distribution systems marks a pivotal step towards enhancing information and library services. It aims to elevate social and information culture, integrate modern technologies, and bolster Uzbekistan’s competitiveness in the global market. Similarly, the 2019 Decree further improves regulatory frameworks, strengthens library infrastructure, and promotes public-private partnerships in the library sector. These initiatives aim not only to modernize library services but also to cultivate a reading culture rooted in national history and culture.
The National Program for the Development and Support of a Reading Culture (2020-2025), approved in December 2020, underscores Uzbekistan’s commitment to publishing high-quality literature that meets the diverse needs of its population. It prioritizes supporting publishers, translating national and international literature, and simplifying book distribution systems. Moreover, the program emphasizes international cooperation to enhance access to diverse literary works and promote reading habits among Uzbek citizens.
Aligned with the “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy, initiatives focus on popularizing Uzbek and world literature, expanding access to libraries, and digitizing the national book fund. The strategy targets increasing the number of young book enthusiasts, fostering artistic and literary creations, and promoting educational resources like the multi-volume “Uzbek adabiyoti khazinasidan” and “Jakhon Bolalar Adabiyoti Durdonalari.”
Recent efforts include the “A Thousand Books for Youth” project, aimed at translating popular global books into Uzbek to enrich the intellectual capabilities of the younger generation. Additionally, annual events such as the “Young Reading Family” and “Poetry Competition” encourage youth participation in reading and intellectual activities, enhancing their cognitive abilities and expanding their knowledge.
The creation of a mobile application for accessing literature in Uzbek and the distribution of electronic books further democratize access to information. These initiatives ensure that literary resources are available across Uzbekistan, promoting continuous learning, cultural enrichment, and spiritual development among its citizens.
Uzbekistan’s commitment to promoting a reading culture through comprehensive policy measures, strategic initiatives, and international collaborations underscores its dedication to national education and cultural development. By enhancing library services, expanding access to literature, and leveraging digital technologies, Uzbekistan empowers its citizens with knowledge, enriches its cultural fabric, and fosters lifelong learning in its society.
