Project Activities of the Libraries of Germany to Promote Reading

Abstract

The study of practical experience of the project activities of the libraries of the Federal Republic of Germany in the field of promoting library as a reading centre is relevant at the present stage of formation of digitalization society. Problems associated with the reduced motivation to read are manifested in one way or another in social and economic spheres, therefore the importance of promotion of reading at the national level is recognized in many countries. It resulted in the development of national programmes on support of reading. Despite the fact that all libraries in the world perform one common function — the development of reader competence and sustained interest in obtaining set of knowledge through reading, the experience of using the forms and methods of this activity is extremely wide.The purpose of the article is to study the trends in the promotion of books and reading in the libraries of Germany for the possible adaptation of examples of specific activities in the libraries of our country. Getting acquainted with international experience allows identifying common and special features in the practice of library activities in Russian Federation and Germany, to determine the achievements and to point out the problems in a broader context. The system of librarianship management in Germany and the typology of German libraries are similar in many respects to the structure of this sector in the Russian Federation, which is an important reason for the possibility of adapting the experience in the domestic librarianship.The author analyzes the primary sources in German, presented on the websites of libraries and on the pages of professional library journals of the Federal States of Germany. The article considers the experience of working with the target groups of children, young adults, families with children, refugees and migrants. The author describes the national reading program Lesestart 1-2-3, popular forms of promoting reading: “Knowledge Box” (Wissensbox), “Book Cinema” (Bilderbuchkino) and Kamishibai. The article emphasizes that reading aloud is a unique tool, undeservedly forgotten by our libraries. Research by German librarians, psychologists and educators testifies that reading aloud not only promotes imagination, creativity and empathy, but also influences educational opportunities. The author concludes that book and reading promotion events held in the libraries of the Federal Republic of Germany can be used as experience in a number of Russian libraries, considering the specific conditions.