THE BOOK AS THE ORNAMENT OF THE HUMAN SOUL

With the participation of the staff of the Scientific Library of the Makhtumkuli Turkmen State University, teachers and students of the Faculty of History, in connection with the first anniversary of the "State Program for the Development of the Library System of Turkmenistan for 2025-2029" approved by the Decision of the Esteemed President and the Plan for its implementation, as well as in accordance with the Regulations on the competition within the framework of the Reading Month, which will be held in the Turkmen Makhtumkuli State University from January 11 to February 11, 2026 under the motto Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses", together with the State Library of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan, an event entitled "The Book as the Ornament of the Human Soul" was held. 

The event brought together staff of the university’s scientific library, lecturers and students of the Faculty of History, and representatives of the library community. During the meeting, the key role of the works of the National Leader, Hero Arkadag, and the Esteemed President, Arkadagly Hero Serdar, as well as the writings of outstanding Turkmen and foreign thinkers, scholars, and authors, was emphasized in shaping the moral and spiritual values of modern youth, developing critical thinking, and strengthening academic culture.

Participants became acquainted with the unique collections of the State Library, including rare editions, archival materials, and publications issued within national educational programmes. Special attention was given to the role of the book not only as a source of knowledge, but also as a means of fostering national identity, ethical values, and intellectual independence. Students actively shared their reflections on how reading classical and contemporary works contributes to professional development, scientific initiative, and personal growth.

In conclusion, the participants expressed their deep gratitude to the country’s leadership for the systematic and long-term support of education, science, and librarianship as fundamental pillars of national development. It was noted that initiatives aimed at revitalizing the culture of reading not only meet the cultural needs of society, but also strengthen Turkmenistan’s position as a country where knowledge is not merely a resource, but the foundation of national identity and sustainable progress.

Bossan Geldimyradova,

Methodologist of the Scientific Library

of Magtymguly Turkmen State University;

Bahar Kossekova,

Director of the Scientific Library of Magtymguly

Turkmen State University.