It is known that on May 16, 2026, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the Decree "On Measures to Develop the Culture of Reading and Form an Intelligent Nation." According to the decree, the "Intellectual Nation" concept was approved, aimed at developing a culture of reading among children and youth and establishing sustainable reading habits. Within the framework of the concept, the nationwide book-reading marathon "Nation of Readers" will kick off on September 15. The Scientific Library of Abai University also plans to contribute to it.

The "Nation of Readers" project systematically aims to develop the intellectual potential of our nation. This is not a one-time project, but a long-term movement aimed at establishing a sustainable habit of reading, learning, thinking, and applying acquired knowledge in life.

Today, increasing the intellectual and cultural potential of society and forming a competitive personality have become primary tasks. To this end, priority directions of state policy vital for the country's future have been defined, and concrete steps have been taken. Specifically, the main focus is on creating new-format libraries, multifunctional public spaces, introducing modern information systems, and modernizing reader infrastructure. Furthermore, promoting national literary heritage domestically and abroad, ensuring the high-quality translation and publication of works, and distributing them to a wide readership play an important role.

Based on seven ideas and covering seven directions, the "Nation of Readers" republican marathon will also feature Abai University's Scientific Library with a special program. For student participants, they are offering the directions "University of Readers," "Educator-Reader," and "Intellectual-Reader." As a reminder, the project will last until March 2027. Participants need to register on the official website of the "Nation of Readers" marathon and read 15 books in their chosen direction. Points will be accumulated accordingly. As a result, readers who achieve the highest ratings will be recognized as winners. Winning participants will be awarded valuable prizes and diplomas.

The idea of increasing the nation's motivation to read is not limited to the marathon alone. Currently, the republican project "10 Readers of the Year" is being implemented, and the Head of State has instructed the relevant authorities to adopt a new law "On Libraries and Publishing." Additionally, under the "Intellectual Nation" concept, by 2027, a National Award will be established for achievements in developing the reading culture, and a unified accessible National Digital Library platform will be created.

«Abai University» Media Center