Solutions from Ukraine: Kyiv to host ARCHA1 mobile library conservation station presentation

In the capital, the first mobile station for the rescue and conservation of library funds, ARCHA1, will be presented at the National Library of Ukraine named after Yaroslav Mudryi.

The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications (MCSC) reports this.

What is the solution?

The mobile station was delivered to Ukraine last week as part of the project "Mobile Stations for the Protection and Digitization of Library Funds", which became possible thanks to close cooperation with the Czech colleagues and numerous donors.

The project presentation will be held on January 27 at 10:30 AM at the National Library of Ukraine named after Yaroslav Mudryi, located at 13 Borychiv Uzviz, Kyiv.

It is noted that the event will be held with the support of:

• The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine,
• The Ukrainian Library Association NGO and thanks to cooperation with the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic,
• The Czech Committee of ICOM,
• The Karel Komarek Family Foundation and numerous donors.

How does it work?

The ministry noted that the project demonstrates the importance of international cooperation in preserving Ukraine's cultural heritage in times of war.

It also provides new opportunities for Ukrainian librarians, helps strengthen ties between Ukraine and the Czech Republic, and emphasizes the role of modern technologies in preserving documents.

"The ARCHA1 mobile station is the first project implemented within the framework of cooperation between the National Library of the Czech Republic and Ukrainian partners," the MCSC said.

The station is equipped with modern technologies for:

• rescue,
• cleaning,
• disinfection,
• drainage,
• restoration of documents damaged by fires, floods, or improper storage conditions.

It has allowed one to work without connecting to external energy sources.

It is also noted that from January 28 to 31, Czech specialists will conduct training for Ukrainian librarians, where participants will gain practical skills in working with the station's equipment.

In addition, the department emphasized that international partners are already working on creating the second mobile station ARCHA2, which will be used to digitize library collections in Ukraine.

"Mobile stations will be moved and used in libraries throughout Ukraine," the MCSC added.

For reference:

At the beginning of the year, Ukraine and Canada formed a significant partnership: the Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine and the Toronto Public Library signed a Memorandum of Cooperation.