Mobile Library in Ukraine: New Opportunities for Readers
A unique mobile library initiative named “Buksin” has begun operating in Ukraine, aiming to provide communities with access to literature, especially in areas populated by internally displaced persons.
This information was shared by the charitable foundation “Library Country,” which organized the project.
The mobile library hosts various events where authors engage in interactive readings, games, and quizzes designed for both children and adults.
The idea for creating this mobile library arose amid the full-scale Russian invasion, when British librarians from the Libraries Connected association decided to offer their support to Ukraine by donating a library bus, acknowledging the challenges posed by the war.
During a crowdfunding campaign to raise £10,000 for the purchase and transportation of the library bus to Ukraine, this initiative garnered support from 227 British patrons. The bus had previously served the library network of Warwickshire, particularly in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare.
The bus has been specially equipped to function as a mobile library:
- it features bookshelves inside;
- there is a workspace for the librarian;
- it includes a table for readers who wish to work on laptops.
Additionally, the bus is equipped with a ramp for wheelchair users or parents with strollers.
Upon its arrival in Ukraine, the bus underwent rebranding and was named “Buksin.” This name was chosen to symbolize the bus as a caterpillar delivering books to readers. The library's collection has also been fully updated with health-related books for all ages and various literary works.
