Russia razing Ukrainian libraries, replacing books with Russian editions in occupied areas

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine is inflicting damage far beyond human lives and physical infrastructure — it is also striking at the country's culture and historical memory. Since the invasion began, hundreds of Ukrainian libraries have been damaged or completely destroyed in Russian attacks.

The situation is especially severe in territories under Russian occupation. There, Ukrainian-language books are being systematically pulled from library shelves and replaced with publications printed in Russia. This is described as an organized process affecting library collections across several occupied regions.

Libraries as a target

The details come from an interview with the head of the Ukrainian charity fund "State of Libraries," whose organization tracks the condition of libraries in both war-affected and occupied areas. According to the interview, the destruction of libraries and the removal of books from shelves is not simply collateral damage of war, but is directed at Ukrainian language, culture and historical identity.

Libraries in Ukraine have traditionally served not only as book repositories but also as centers of community life and education. Their destruction, or the replacement of their contents, represents a loss that extends beyond physical damage — it cuts off access to Ukrainian-language literature and historical sources precisely in regions where such material is being swapped for Russian editions.

The question of preserving cultural heritage under wartime conditions remains pressing as the war and occupation continue.