On May 29, 2025, the Mary Velayat Library hosted a Book Fair organized by the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan, the Government of Turkmenistan, and Mary American Corner. The event featured an exhibit of English-Turkmen bilingual editions of American classics and a collection of American literature for children and young adults. Attendees also had access to English and STEM learning materials.
U.S. Ambassador Rood presented a collection of classic American literature translated into Turkmen to the Velayat Library as a gift from the United States. In her opening remarks, Ambassador Rood stated: “Today we join students, parents, teachers, librarians, and citizens across Mary to celebrate the importance of reading and the unparalleled power of literacy. The simple act of opening a new book expands our knowledge, transforms our minds, and inspires strong leaders and thoughtful citizens.”
Visitors at the Book Fair explored new additions to the bilingual collection including "Hidden Figures," "The Giving Tree," "The Girl Who Helped Thunder and Other Native American Folktales," "Best Little Word Book Ever!" and "What Do People Do All Day?" The U.S. Embassy has published 14 bilingual editions so far to make these stories more accessible in Turkmenistan. These publications are available for check-out at American Spaces in Ashgabat, Mary, Turkmenabat, and Dashoguz.
For media inquiries, contact the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan at USEmbassy-Ashgabat-PAS@state.gov.