Lubov Vladimirovna, librarian in Bolshaya Elkhovka (Republic of Mordovia). Village libraries form a crucial part in the social structure of any village as well as their communal lifestyle. They serve more than a half of Russia's population. Reading is not the main cause for visiting; each library is a centre for education, cultural events and entertainment. The spaces are used for distributing news, celebrating anniversaries and social gatherings. Village libraries nourish patriotism in the youth besides preserving national traditions and historical knowledge. Many of the libraries are managed by just one employee each, most of them being women. They are the ones in charge of decorating the spaces which is why each library possesses a unique interior.