School libraries to be modernized, with deputy principals responsible for mahalla libraries

A draft Government resolution titled “On Developing Library Activities until 2030 and Improving the Book Trade System” has been posted on the public discussion portal.

According to the draft document, starting from January 1, 2027, model mahalla libraries will be established in remote and hard-to-reach areas. These libraries will be equipped with electronic book-reading devices (tablets), headphones for audiobooks, and other necessary equipment. At the same time, alongside mahalla chairpersons, school deputy principals responsible for spiritual and educational affairs will be assigned responsibility for ensuring the regular operation of these model mahalla libraries.

The draft document also provides for measures aimed at strengthening the material and technical infrastructure of school libraries, expanding their book collections, and increasing students’ access to modern information resources.

According to the document, the material and technical infrastructure of libraries in general secondary schools will be strengthened annually, while their book collections will be supplemented with professional and specialized literature. To this end, an inventory of the existing book collections, technical equipment, and needs of school libraries will first be conducted. 

A list of the necessary literature for children and technical equipment for libraries will then be prepared, with library collections to be expanded gradually.

It is also planned to systematically replenish children’s libraries and general secondary school libraries across the regions with fiction in the Uzbek language based on the Latin alphabet. A relevant list of literature will be compiled, books will be purchased based on this list, and library collections will be enriched with new publications every year. This work is planned to begin in March 2027 and continue annually from June onward.

The plan also includes expanding access to the internet in school libraries. According to the draft, Wi-Fi zones will be established in children’s libraries and general secondary school libraries. To achieve this, the existing technical infrastructure will be assessed, libraries will be fully connected to fiber-optic internet networks, Wi-Fi routers will be installed, and the networks will be connected to a secure internet system. These measures are planned to begin in March 2027 and be completed by June 2028.

The issue of supplying educational institutions with books has also been addressed. Starting from 2027, “Book Caravan” campaigns are planned to be held every March, through which literary and educational books will be delivered free of charge to educational institutions, libraries, and mahallas across the regions.