The Bayalinov Youth and Children’s Library in Bishkek on April 24 inaugurated a new elevator for persons with disabilities, ensuring equal access to the library’s resources and programming. This project was made possible through a grant of over 2 million KGS from the U.S. Department of State, in close cooperation between the U.S. Embassy, the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy, and the Administration of the Bayalinov Library, the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan reported.
As the first elevator of its kind in a Kyrgyz public institution, it stands as a symbol of the combined commitment of the U.S. and Kyrgyz governments to inclusivity and accessibility. The elevator can be accessed through the Kamkor Center for Inclusive Education and allows persons with disabilities to independently access entire library and the enriching programs it offers, including U.S. Embassy-sponsored STEM programs at the Maker Space and English language learning clubs at the American Corner.
“By enabling all visitors to access educational resources, programming, and STEM workshops, we are removing barriers and opening doors to new opportunities,” said U.S. Ambassador to the Kyrgyz Republic Lesslie Viguerie.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, we express our gratitude to the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic, and personally to Ambassador Lesslie Viguerie, for the assistance and support provided to people with disabilities in improving their living conditions and resolving issues related to education and access to information,” said Ainura Askarova, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Photo: US Embassy in Kyrgyzstan
