In the Chelyabinsk region, libraries are turned into open spaces
Remember the famous scene from KVN, where a strict guard tells you to be quiet in the library? Modern children would hardly understand the meaning of the joke, because today the library is a place of games, creativity, master classes and fun communication
The first six children’s cultural and educational centers appeared in the Southern Urals in 2026 in Sima, Zlatoust, Magnitogorsk and Chelyabinsk, Uvelsky and October districts. Here we moved away from classical standards, focusing on technology, comfort and an inclusive environment. The spaces were zoned and filled with smart equipment, and each center came up with its own unique concept, Governor Alexei Texler said. Somewhere they study artificial intelligence, somewhere they conduct scientific experiments, create their own cartoons, draw on the sand and master pottery.
The concept of each created center is based on the creation of such a space where every visitor can find something to do, whether it is a kid whose mother brought an interesting time, or a schoolboy who needs to prepare for a lesson. Particular attention is paid to the creation of a barrier-free environment adapted for children with special needs.
“The centres are designed to bring together children of different ages to learn about the world: what can you do with your hands, how to turn it into your profession. There are books. There are quiet corners, you can retire, do a project. The goal is to create an accessible environment for children so that there is somewhere to go and organize their leisure time, says the Minister of Culture of the Chelyabinsk region Irina Anfalova-Shishkina.
Next year, five more such spaces are planned to open on the basis of libraries, they will appear in the Trinity, Verkhneufalei, Zlatoust and Ashin districts. Each of them will also have its own concept, corresponding to the characteristics of cities and the needs of residents. For example, in Upper Ufalea there will be its own “Island of Discoveries”, aimed at environmental education, and in Troitsk “Smart City”, where the emphasis will be on the technologies of the XXI century.
According to Governor Alexey Texler, the renovation of libraries is carried out comprehensively, after the repair, convenient sites with an inclusive environment appear, thousands of new books are purchased, as well as interactive educational complexes.
Governor of the Chelyabinsk region Alexey Teksler:
“Libraries and cultural houses are becoming modern points of attraction, where children explore the world through play and creativity, meet new professions and find friends. The development of such formats in the field will certainly continue. I would like to invite South Africans to our libraries. Discover new formats and spend time with your family
" The library model itself is changing: it becomes a place where a child comes not only for a book, but also for an idea, communication, creative experience and the opportunity to try new things. It is important that these spaces really meet the needs of children and families and become growth points for municipalities, says Natalia Egorova, director of the Mayakovsky Chelyabinsk Regional Children’s Library.
Children's centers that already accept children:
