On 16 October 2026, the traditional Bread Festival entitled «Omirdin zhyly nyshany. A Warm Symbol of Life» was held at the East Kazakhstan Regional Library for Children and Youth. The event aimed to foster respect for bread among children, familiarise them with the cultural traditions of different peoples, and cultivate a mindful and appreciative attitude towards the fruits of human labour. The festival programme was rich, engaging, and diverse. For instance, the interactive book exhibition «Kitaptagy nan hikayasy. The Story of Bread in Books» introduced participants to literature exploring bread, the traditions of breadmaking, and the distinctive methods of preparing baked goods among different peoples. The bread-making workshops captured the children’s genuine interest. At the «Living Invisible Worlds» activity station, participants not only learned about the properties of baker’s yeast but also took part in engaging educational experiments. At the «Pretzels and Brezels» workshop, participants learned how to shape buns and make pretzels, as well as how to decorate salt-dough creations using gouache and watercolour techniques. Particular attention should also be given to the workshops dedicated to giving products a second life, where children gained hands-on experience in reusing food products and learned the importance of treating bread with care and avoiding waste. The programme was further enriched by an interactive travelling exhibition entitled «Bread Is the Staff of Life», presented by the Ethnographic Museum. The festival concluded with a symbolic initiative called «A Warm Gift», which highlighted the significance of bread as a symbol of kindness, generosity, prosperity, and human unity. The Library extends its sincere gratitude to the team at BURABAI, Serikpayeva Individual Enterprise, for providing refreshments for the young festival participants. The festival helped broaden the children’s horizons, foster their creative abilities, and cultivate an interest in the history and cultural heritage of different peoples. The participants gained new insights into the significance of bread, explored traditional bread-making practices, and gained first-hand appreciation of the importance of reducing food waste and treating food resources responsibly. Event Outcomes: The festival brought together 120 children and became a significant cultural and educational event dedicated to preserving traditional values, encouraging the creative engagement of young readers, and fostering respect for bread as a symbol of life and prosperity.
On September 29, 2026, the East Kazakhstan Regional Ethnographic Museum hosted the opening of an art exhibition by students of the «PERFORMANCE» studio, led by Olga Erzhanovna Chavkina. The exhibition features works by 22 authors, created in various genres: landscape, still life, animal art, and fantasy. The exhibition demonstrates creative exploration, the diversity of artistic interests, and the individual perspective of each participant. The exhibition will run for three months at the address: K. Kaysenov St., 67.
Maxim Zverev’s Life Batteries” Literary and Educational meeting
On September 18, an event entitled “Maxim Zverev’s Life Batteries” was held at the East Kazakhstan Regional Library for Children’s and Youth. The event was dedicated to the 130th anniversary of the birth of M. D. Zverev, an outstanding zoologist, a talented nature writer, and the People’s Writer of the Kazakh SSR.
The event was held in the form of a book guide-an imaginary journey through the writer’s life and creative legacy. The participants of this journey included schoolchildren, teachers, local historians, library readers, and admirers of the work of the «Kazakhstani Prishvin».
The guides on this journey were Maxim Zverev’s close friend, fellow writer and expedition companion, ornithologist, Candidate of Biological Sciences, and nature writer B. V. Shcherbakov, as well as K. P. Prokopov, Candidate of Biological Sciences, Associate Professor, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Professor at S. Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University.
The journey was based on B. Shcherbakov’s novella «The Herbs of Memory», dedicated to Maxim Zverev. In it, the author shares his memories of their forty-year friendship, joint expeditions, studies of Kazakhstan’s natural environment, and the lessons in literary craftsmanship he learned from his senior colleague.
During the meeting, participants discovered the different facets of the writer’s personality-as a gifted wordsmith, a dedicated researcher, and a profound expert on nature. Books, archival materials, and personal recollections helped recreate the atmosphere of the era and trace the path Zverev followed in his development as both a scientist and a writer.
The journey concluded with an introduction to «The Secrets of Longevity from the Kazakhstani Prishvin»-a reflection on the writer’s vitality, creativity, and active longevity.
The meeting concluded with a group photo session and warm, informal conversations between the participants and the event’s guests.
The annual large-scale book festival “Shygys Book Fest” is held in the East Kazakhstan Region to promote reading culture, popularize books and literature, encourage reading among the public, and foster interest in the intellectual and cultural heritage.
In 2026, the festival once again became an open platform that brought together readers, writers, emerging authors, library professionals, representatives of the creative community, and everyone interested in books and literature. The East Kazakhstan Regional Children’s and Youth Library also joined the festival, preparing a rich and diverse program for its readers, combining educational, literary, and interactive formats.
The central idea of “Shygys Book Fest – 2026” was to promote reading and foster an educated, intellectually developed generation within the framework of the concept «Зерделі ұлт» — «Интеллектуальная нация» (“Zerdeli Ult” -“Intellectual Nation”). The festival aims to increase interest in books and literature, broaden the horizons of the younger generation, and encourage a pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and self-development.
As part of the festival, a book exhibition titled «Оқыған ұрпақ – озық ұрпақ. Читающее поколение – поколение будущего». (“A Reading Generation is the Generation of the Future”) was organized. The exhibition featured works that contribute to broadening perspectives, developing intellectual curiosity, and cultivating a sustained interest in reading. Special attention was given to works by Kazakhstani authors, literature on the history and culture of Kazakhstan, as well as contemporary literature of interest to young people. A vibrant interactive highlight of the festival was the literary game «Страницы на связи» (“Pages in Connection.”) Participants tested their knowledge of literary works, authors, and characters, demonstrating their erudition, quick thinking, and teamwork skills. The game-based format made engagement with literature dynamic, emotional, and enjoyable.
A special place in the program was given to the event «Кітап. Дәстүр. Бір кеңістік. » (“Book. Tradition. “A Shared Space.”) which brought together literature, national traditions, and modern culture. Participants were able to explore the connection between literature and historical memory, spiritual values, and cultural heritage, as well as see how traditions are reflected in contemporary cultural life.
The interactive photo exhibition «Любимый город: прошлое и настоящее» (“Favorite City: Past and Present”) introduced visitors to the history of the streets, avenues, and architectural landmarks of Ust-Kamenogorsk. Using QR codes, visitors could access additional information, discover interesting facts, and gain deeper insight into the history of their hometown. This format effectively combined visual materials, modern digital technologies, and local history content.
Another intellectual challenge was the library quest «Ұлы жаңалықтар дәуірі. Эпоха открытий» (“The Era of Great Discoveries.”) Participants completed a series of tasks related to books, knowledge, scientific discoveries, and outstanding figures. The quest contributed to the development of logical and critical thinking, cognitive engagement, teamwork, and interest in new knowledge.
All events were held in a creative, educational, and welcoming atmosphere. The interactive formats helped attract participants’ attention to literature and demonstrated that books are not only a source of knowledge but also a space for communication, creativity, discovery, and collaborative idea exchange.
The organization of “Shygys Book Fest – 2026” contributed to the development of reading culture, the promotion of national literature, history, and traditions, as well as the advancement of the idea of «Зерделі ұлт» — «Интеллектуальная нация» (“Zerdeli Ult” -“Intellectual Nation”). The festival brought together readers and members of the creative community, creating a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and cultural development.
Thus, “Shygys Book Fest – 2026” demonstrated that books remain an essential part of modern life — a source of knowledge and inspiration, a means of communication, and a powerful tool for shaping an intellectually and culturally developed generation.
On August 10, to mark the birthday of the great Kazakh poet, educator, and thinker Abai Kunanbaiuly, the East Kazakhstan Regional Library for Children and Youth organized the exhibition-installation «Omir ornegi – Abai» on Arbat, one of the city’s cultural and spiritual centres.
Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about Abai’s life and creative work, his philosophical reflections, and his literary legacy. The book exhibition featured collections of poetry, «The Book of Words», scholarly works on the poet’s life and creative legacy, as well as books offering deeper insight into Abai’s world.
As part of the event, local residents and visitors read Abai’s works, children recited his poems from memory, and songs featuring lyrics by the poet were performed to musical accompaniment. This served as a vivid testament to the enduring power of Abai’s work to bring different generations together.
Particular interest was generated by the modern interactive section «Abai alemine virtualdy sayakhat» where the poet’s literary legacy was presented using the capabilities of artificial intelligence. Thanks to the innovative video format, participants were able to gain a fresh perspective on the work of the great thinker.
In the creative section «Abai olenderi alem tilderinde» participants performed the poet’s works expressively in Turkish and English, highlighting their universal human value.
At the literary platform «Ashyk microphone: Abai uni» everyone had the opportunity to recite their favorite poems by the poet and share their thoughts on his work.
The guest of honor at the event was Mesut Ozdemir, a Turkish language teacher at the «Bilim-Innovation Lyceum», who noted that Abai’s works remain relevant to this day.
Throughout the event, poems, songs, and reflections on the work of the great poet were presented, while at the end, participants shared their impressions and emphasized the significance of Abai’s spiritual legacy for contemporary society.
Residents and visitors alike had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of the great poet and honor the memory of Abai, whose work continues to inspire people across generations to this day.
To mark National Dombra Day, the library hosted a unique cultural event titled “Dombra Vibe.”
The special guest of the evening was renowned dombra craftsman Zhanarbek Kazezuly. During the meeting, he explained to young readers that the dombra is far more than a musical instrument for the Kazakh people—it is a sacred symbol of the nation’s spirit, history, and ancestral heritage. He also spoke about the significance of National Dombra Day and shared fascinating insights into the art of crafting a dombra. He described the unique characteristics of different types of wood used in its production, emphasizing that each dombra has its own distinctive sound. He encouraged the younger generation to cherish their national heritage and promote the rich tradition of Kazakh küy music.
The event also featured engaging discussions with professional dombra performers from the region, accompanied by live musical performances. One of the highlights of the evening was the outstanding performance by amateur dombra player Galina Grigoryeva, whose heartfelt rendition of a traditional Kazakh küy deeply moved the audience. In recognition of her contribution to promoting Kazakhstan’s musical heritage, she was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the library administration.
In addition, the event highlighted the values and significance of the renewed Constitution, emphasizing its role in strengthening the country’s fundamental spiritual and social principles.
The evening concluded with a summary of its inspiring and memorable moments, and commemorative souvenirs were presented to the guests as a token of appreciation for their active participation in the cultural event.
On July 5, 2026, a festive event «Kumbirle, dombra!» dedicated to the National Dombra Day and the 165th anniversary of the kuyshi and composer Dina Nurpeisova was held in the large yurt of the Left-Bank Complex of the East Kazakhstan Ethnographic Museum.
The event, organized to introduce guests to the sacred musical instrument of the Kazakh people and the works of Dina Nurpeisova, provided guests with a positive mood and vivid impressions.
During the event, the Zhangyru Center for Education and Creativity, the performer Ardak Kashey, and the dombra maker Kazez Zhanarbek performed.
The event included a quiz, a scrapbooking workshop, an exhibition of literature about musical instruments, and an exhibition-fair of dombra makers.
On June 1, 2026, the East Kazakhstan Regional Library for children and youth held the official opening ceremony of the «Dаstur HUB» creative space. The project was launched within the framework of Kazakhstan’s Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence and was dedicated to the celebration of International Children’s Day.
The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Nurymbet Saktaganov, Governor of East Kazakhstan Region; Almat Akishev, Mayor of Ust-Kamenogorsk; Andrey Lazarev, Managing Director for Administrative Affairs of KazZinc LLP; alongside deputies, representatives of the creative intelligentsia, civil society organizations, and the media.
During the event, attendees were introduced to the concept of the new creative space, which has been established to preserve and promote cultural heritage through the use of advanced digital technologies. The exhibition featured interactive multimedia content, QR- technologies, and materials developed with the use of artificial intelligence. The activities of «Dаstur HUB» will place particular emphasis on fostering a reading culture, supporting the creative initiatives of children and youth, and implementing educational and outreach projects. For the participants of the celebration, a range of thematic zones, creative workshops, traditional national games, interactive activities, and children’s entertainment programs were organized.
The opening of «Dаstur HUB» marked a significant cultural event in the region, bringing together traditional values and modern technologies, while creating new opportunities for the intellectual and creative development of the younger generation.
On the eve of the next Victory Day, the staff of the EKR Ethnographic Museum held an educational tour «The Path to Victory: History in Faces and Events», dedicated to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War of VKO and Kazakhstan.
During the tour, students learned about the key events of the Great Patriotic War, the courage and dedication of soldiers and home front workers who contributed to the achievement of the Great Victory. Special attention was paid to the heroes T. Tokhtarov, S. Nurmagambetov, I. Aitikov, K. Kaisenov, V. Myza, T. Begeldinov, A. Moldagulova, M. Mamеtova, B. Momyshuly, L. Bedа, and others. The participants of the tour were told about the feats of their fellow countrymen, their military path, and their awards. Students will learn about the real stories of people whose names are forever inscribed in the history of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as about archival materials, photographs, and wartime exhibits.
On April 22, a literary meeting titled «Kitap zhane bolmys» was held at the East Kazakhstan Regional Library for Children and Youth, dedicated to National Book Day. The event was attended by young readers and everyone interested in contemporary literature.
The event`s main guest was the distinguished Kazakh writer, playwright, literary scholar, specialist in Alash movement studies, translator, and critic, Alibek Baibol. The meeting was held in an open dialogue format. The author spoke candidly about his creative journey, shared the influences that shaped his development, and reflected on the ideas behind his works as well as on the evolving trends in contemporary Kazakh literature. Participants actively asked questions and received profound and candid answers, while the atmosphere of open and trusting dialogue offered a fresh perspective on the culture of reading. Young readers were particularly interested in the book mop-ups featuring QR codes, which allow them to read the author`s works in a digital format. The meeting became a vibrant cultural event aimed at promoting reading among young people, strengthening spiritual and moral values, and fostering a deeper interest in Kazakh literature and cultural heritage.