Translated with AI
In the Republic of Tajikistan, considerable attention is paid to the development of libraries, the importance of books in the spiritual and moral education of youth, and the promotion of social engagement. Libraries aim to foster a desire among young people for reading, spiritual and intellectual growth, self-awareness, and self-education, according to the press service of the National Library of Tajikistan.
Since independence, library development has become a priority in the country's cultural policy. Supporting national book publishing, popularizing literature, and holding national competitions and festivals, such as "Book, the Radiance of Dawn," "Children's and Teenage Book Week of the Republic of Tajikistan," and, since 2026, the "Shokhnomakhoni" recitation competition, contribute to fostering a love for the homeland and preserving the country's historical and cultural heritage.
Today, Tajikistan has over 6,000 libraries with a combined collection of approximately 20 million items. However, a significant number of library staff, especially in the regions, lack specialized education, and retraining and professional development for library specialists is rare.
The National Library of the Republic of Tajikistan organizes retraining and methodological support for librarians through the Center for Library Education and Innovation and the Research and Methodology Department. The Center offers continuing education courses under a license from the Ministry of Education and Science, while the Research and Methodology Department develops a library development strategy, creates a legislative and regulatory framework, and provides consultations and research and methodological support to libraries across the country, regardless of their departmental affiliation.
Libraries perform educational, cultural, and informational functions, contributing to the formation of a new worldview and raising the cultural level of the population.
