ENHANCING CULTURAL HERITAGE INTERPRETATION THROUGH QR CODE-BASED DIGITAL LIBRARY SERVICES: A CASE STUDY OF THE "DIGITAL RENAISSANCE" PROJECT IN DUSTLIK DISTRICT, UZBEKISTAN

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has significantly transformed the way cultural heritage is preserved, interpreted, and disseminated. Libraries are no longer limited to providing traditional information services; instead, they have become active participants in digital knowledge creation and public education. This paper presents the "Digital Renaissance" project implemented by the Dustlik District Information and Library Center in Uzbekistan as an innovative model for integrating digital library services with cultural heritage interpretation. The project utilizes Quick Response (QR) code technology to provide visitors with instant access to audio guides and electronic documents related to prominent scholars represented at the Renaissance Monument. All educational materials were developed using verified library resources and professionally narrated before being uploaded to the official library website. This approach enables visitors to obtain reliable information independently while simultaneously promoting digital library resources and increasing public engagement. The findings suggest that the project has improved access to cultural information, increased website traffic, strengthened library visibility, and encouraged historical awareness among young people. The proposed model offers a practical and cost-effective solution that can be replicated in other historical and cultural sites throughout Uzbekistan.