Ashgabat celebrated the 130th anniversary of the first library in Turkmenistan with a ceremonial event, as reported by the turkmenistan.gov.tm.
The celebration was organized in the State Library of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan and brought together readers, librarians and cultural figures. The speakers noted that the library, developing throughout its long history, has always remained accessible to everyone. In honor of the anniversary, the most active employees were presented with memorable gifts. In August 1895, the first Transcaspian Regional Public Library with a collection of several thousand books opened in Ashgabat. From the first years of its existence, the library actively developed and became a methodological center for the entire country. Even the devastating earthquake of 1948, which destroyed the building and the collection, did not stop the noble cause: literally a few months later, the library resumed its activities.
Today, the State Library is a modern scientific, information, cultural and educational center, whose collection contains more than 5.6 million publications and its activities cover many areas – from the restoration of rare books to the introduction of digital technologies. Librarians organize traveling exhibitions, literary evenings and literature reviews. Active and multifaceted activities make it an important participant in the cultural life of the country. In January of this year, the State Program for the Development of the Library Sphere for 2025-2029 was approved. The document is intended to not only improve librarianship and introduce innovations, but also to officially enshrine the importance of the work that the library carries out.
