Autonomous libraries have been introduced in Almaty,
allowing city residents to choose and borrow books without the need to visit traditional
reading rooms. For the first time, 24 modern book vending machines have been
installed in public places across the metropolis, including metro stations, public
service centers, shopping malls, and youth community centers. Each machine can
hold up to 250 books, and the service is accessible with a library card. Dozens
of people use it daily, including Aruzhan Dikhanshiyeva. She has been using the
autonomous library for a month and has already read nearly five books. She says
it offers everything - from classics to contemporary authors.
«I love reading books and used to spend a lot of money on
buying them. Thanks to these autonomous libraries, I can get any book I like. Additionally,
I can borrow more than three books at a time,» shared Almaty resident Aruzhan
Dikhanshiyeva.
Moreover, book lovers can order literature in advance, and
the return tracking system makes the process convenient and transparent.
«A library card can be obtained at one of 26 branches in
Almaty. With a library card, books can be borrowed from the machine for up to
two weeks or renewed via a personal account directly at the machine. All books
are monitored, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for readers,» noted
Ulan Orazgaliyev, Deputy Head of the Electronic Library Resources Service of
Almaty.
According to experts, such autonomous libraries have become
a popular solution, especially for young readers.
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