The beginnings of the Public Library in Rekovac – a contribution to a more precise determination of its origins

Abstract

Written documents indicate that the origins of librarianship in Rekovac are associated with the Cultural League (Kulturna Liga) movement, which established the first village library in 1909. According to a 1912 report, this library boasted an impressive collection of books that surpassed those of some neighbouring towns. Comprehensive research of archival materials, literature, and contemporary sources has revealed that the National Library in Rekovac did not exist during the interwar period. Various documents confirm that the local population apparently satisfied their reading and educational needs through a well-equipped school library. A public library with a limited collection was founded in Rekovac in January 1942 and immediately integrated into the school library. The current library’s history in Rekovac dates back to 1946 or 1949, with continuous working from the early 1950s to the present day. Archival evidence shows that a public library was not established in Rekovac in 1928. Notably, 1928 began to be cited only after the library received the „Milorad Panić - Surep” award in 1978.