A unique project called “Buksin” has been launched in Ukraine – a mobile library in a bus aimed at providing access to books for various communities, particularly in areas with a high concentration of internally displaced persons.
This was reported by the “Chytomo” resource, citing the charity fund “Library Country,” which initiated the creation of this library.
As part of the project, writers along with the team organize various activities for different age groups: interactive readings, games, quizzes, and cultural events.
The idea of implementing a mobile library emerged against the backdrop of the full-scale invasion by Russia when British librarians from the Libraries Connected association decided to gift a bibliobus to Ukraine to help mitigate the crisis caused by the war.
During a crowdfunding campaign, £10,000 was raised for the purchase, outfitting, and transportation of the bibliobus to Ukraine, supported by 227 British patrons. This bus was previously used by the library network of Warwickshire, particularly in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare.
The bus was specially adapted for the functions of a mobile library:
- inside, there are bookshelves;
- a working area for the librarian;
- a table for readers with the option to work on laptops.
In addition, the bus is equipped with a ramp for wheelchair users or strollers.
After the arrival of the bibliobus in Ukraine, a rebranding took place, resulting in the name “Buksin.” The name was chosen symbolically, as the bus became a “caterpillar” delivering books to readers. The library also received new additions – health-related books for children and adults, as well as fiction for readers of various ages.
