Varna, Bulgaria — The Varna Regional Library “Pencho Slaveykov” has unveiled Emma, a humanoid robot designed to transform the educational experience through technology.
Emma was introduced during the 20th-anniversary celebration of the library’s American Center on November 23, marking a pivotal moment in the library’s integration of cutting-edge tools into its educational initiatives.
The event, attended by US Embassy cultural attaché Eric Brasil and Varna’s Deputy Mayor Pavel Popov, highlighted Emma’s role in the project “STEAM Career Guidance for Future Leaders of Generation Z,” supported by the US Embassy.
The initiative aims to engage students from the municipalities of Byala, Valchi Dol, Dolni Chiflik, and Suvorovo in training programs exploring fields such as oceanology, archaeology, and architecture.
A New Face for Learning
Emma stands out not only for her humanoid appearance but also for her ability to make learning interactive and enjoyable. Fluent in both Bulgarian and English, she provides verbal explanations complemented by visuals displayed on her built-in screen.
Her skills include leading interactive games, dancing, and delivering lectures, ensuring a dynamic educational approach.
During her debut, Emma captivated the audience with a lecture on oceanography, showcasing her knowledge and interactive capabilities.
When asked about her favorite books, Emma’s witty response, “Good ones,” drew laughter and applause from the crowd.
Expanding Horizons for Education
Emma’s integration into the library reflects a broader vision of blending technology with traditional educational methods.
Natalia Angelova, head of the library’s Information Technology department, shared that Emma will continuously evolve as new information and capabilities are added to her system.
Initially, Emma will serve as an attraction for visitors, offering presentations about the library’s services and facilities.
“Emma represents a new chapter for our library and for Varna,” said library director Radka Kalcheva.
“She’s the first robot introduced not only in Varna but also in any public library in Bulgaria. We are excited about her potential to inspire and educate future generations.”
A Gateway to the Future
The project’s focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education aims to equip students with the skills needed for future careers.
By incorporating Emma into their programs, the library seeks to make learning accessible, engaging, and forward-looking.
Emma’s ability to communicate complex topics interactively is expected to resonate with students, encouraging curiosity and deeper engagement in their studies.
Her role aligns with global trends of integrating robotics and AI into educational systems to bridge the gap between traditional learning and modern technological advancements.
Cultural and Educational Collaboration
The unveiling of Emma also underscores the strong cultural and educational ties between the US Embassy and Varna. “This project embodies the shared vision of fostering innovation and education,” said Eric Brasil, the US Embassy cultural attaché.
As Emma embarks on her journey at the Varna Regional Library, she is set to inspire a generation of young learners while redefining how libraries serve their communities in the digital age.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members