A talk titled “Getting to Know and Promoting Libraries in Erzurum” was held at the Erzurum Technical University (ETU) Central Library.
The program, organized to discuss the current state of libraries in Erzurum, the opportunities they offer, and their role in cultural life, was attended by ETU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Naim Ürkmez, academics, and many students.
Moderated by Süleyman Yıldız, Head of the ETU Library and Documentation Department, the event featured Murat Üstündağ, Acting Head of the Atatürk University Library and Documentation Department; Hilal Demir, Branch Manager of ESMEK and Libraries at the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality; and Hatice Doğulu, Acting Director of the İsmail Saib Sencer Provincial Public Library, as speakers. The speakers shared their views and experiences regarding library services carried out in their institutions, user-oriented practices, and the role of libraries in social life.
In his speech, Süleyman Yıldız, Head of the ETU Library and Documentation Department, emphasized that Erzurum has historically been one of the important centers of knowledge and wisdom. He underlined that libraries are not merely places where books are stored, but vibrant cultural centers that build bridges between the past and the future and contribute to individuals’ understanding of themselves and the world.
Reminding the audience that Erzurum Technical University ranked first nationwide with a satisfaction rate of 80.86% in library services according to the 2025 Higher Education Council (YÖK) University Monitoring and Evaluation Report, Yıldız stated that this result is an important indicator of the university’s quality service approach and user-focused efforts.
The program concluded with a question-and-answer session following evaluations on topics such as how libraries can be used more effectively in the digital age, efforts to increase young people’s interest in libraries, and the importance of inter-institutional cooperation.
Directorate of Corporate Communication and Promotion December 24,2025
