Dapper Stray Cat Promoted To Assistant Librarian At Russian Children's Library

Kuzya, Assistant Cat Librarian

Novorossiysk children's library in Russia has its own Dewey the Library Cat, in the form of a stray tabby who worked his way up from street cat to assistant librarian, faster than you can say, "Is this book overdue?" in Russian.





RocketNews reports that the cat showed up one day in search of food and shelter, and the kind library staff couldn't resist his sweet nature. Since he lacked the proper documentation to stay, they obtained him an official kitty passport, which required he receive a microchip implant and rabies vaccination. 



Due to his punctuality and strong work ethic, the feline bibliophile was recently promoted to the position of assistant librarian by special order of the library director. 



As part of the advancement, he is entitled to 30 cans of cat food a month, extra treats, and scratches behind the ears. There's no word on if his spiffy new bow-tie was part of the bonus package, or just an effort on his part to look more purr-fesional in the workplace. 



Kuzya's responsibilities include sleeping (check), looking cute (check), and entertaining young visitors. He has been featured on the local news, has his own page on the library's website, and advises students to read more books about pets.





Kuzya isn't Russia's only famous working feline. The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is also home to a troupe of cat guards, who were recently honored with their own fancy portraits.

Via RocketNews / Images: YouTube / Novorossiysk Children's Library

Dapper Stray Cat Promoted To Assistant Librarian At Russian Children's Library

Around The World In 80 Cats #18: Russia

Hermitage Cats Today

I've written about Hermitage Cats in the past, but a great video emerged this week that gives us another inside look at the 70 cats who call the St. Petersburg landmark their home.

Countless numbers of fortunate felines have worked at the Russian art museum over the past 200 years, where they were first brought in to control the rats and mice that infested the hallways of the palace during the 18th-century. Nowadays, the cats have their own HQ in the basement, where they are given all the kibble, cuddles, and medical attention they need. Technically they are supposed to lay low while they patrol the grounds, but occasionally a kitty will sneak out to explore the galleries (because cats love art, too!).

Some of the kitties end up getting adopted (which I think is a nice way of saying sometimes people take them). As one caretaker relates, "People see young, sweet animals, and take them to their homes." She also explains how some of the cats are considered good luck due to their coloring, and owning a Hermitage cat is a sign of prestige.

Thanks to our friends at the IBKC for the tip!

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Know of any cat-themed travel destinations, or have any cool kitty vacation pics to share? Drop me a line at catsparella@gmail.com!

Around The World In 80 Cats #18: Russia