YSU hosts event to celebrate Librarian’s Day

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, emphasizing the crucial role of libraries and the need to value the profession of librarianship, stated, "Since 2004, October 7 has been marked as Librarian Day, to appreciate the profession and highlight the importance of libraries. Today, libraries face a number of challenges, and YSU is no exception. However, we are working consistently to overcome these obstacles. During my student years, finding a single article or book was quite difficult and required significant effort, but that is no longer the case. Numerous international databases are now accessible to both our staff and students."

Speaking about planned structural innovations at YSU Library, the rector added, "For many years, the University Library has operated with the support of the Izmirlian family. Thanks to their invaluable support, a new open-space area is currently under construction on the library’s first floor. It will become a favorite environment for both students and lecturers."

Avetik Mejlumyan, Director of YSU Sarkis and Marie Izmirlian Library, congratulated all librarians on their professional holiday and highlighted, "This day is especially meaningful, as it brings together librarians from various universities across Armenia. These gatherings are important not only for mutual understanding but also for fostering collaboration. A library has never been merely a storage for books—it is a living space where knowledge is continuously reborn. Our ultimate goal is for YSU Library to keep evolving in line with modern technological advancements and to become not only a scholarly but also a cultural and creative hub." 

Avetik Mejlumyan also stressed that the librarian's role stands at the forefront of knowledge dissemination and cultural preservation: "Being here today is a tribute to all those who, through their often unseen but immensely important work, have sustained the 'house of knowledge' — the library."

Anna Khalatyan, Head of the Reader Engagement and Events Division of YSU Sarkis and Marie Izmirlian Library and organizer of the event, noted that this event was also a wonderful opportunity to build mutual connections and explore avenues for collaboration.

"Thanks to the event, our director had the opportunity to meet librarians from other universities. This was a key step not only for exchanging experiences but also for developing joint programs within the library community. Today, we hosted representatives from more than 19 university libraries," she said. 

During the event, YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan awarded YSU Gold Medal to Aida Sargsyan, a long-time employee of the library and Head of the Computer Services and Automation Department, in recognition of her dedicated and long-standing service.

During the event, guests toured the library and viewed the artistic works featured in the thematic exhibition, created by talented librarians.

The event dedicated to Librarian Day concluded with a festive concert, featuring a vibrant program performed by students of YSU Charles Aznavour Cultural Center.

Additionally, the director of YSU Library presented certificates of appreciation to Knar Misakyan, Head of YSU Marketing Department; Sargis Hovsepyan, Director of the Charles Aznavour Cultural Center; Sima Ghazakhetsyan, Chief Librarian of the Izmirlian Library and organizer of the exhibition — for their dedicated work and support in organizing the event.