Ukrainians buy books and donate to publishers after Russian strikes destroy millions of volumes

Ukrainians are rallying in support of their publishing industry following a series of Russian airstrikes that have devastated book warehouses and printing facilities. The attacks, which many view as a deliberate assault on Ukrainian culture, have spurred a wave of book purchases and donations aimed at helping publishers recover. The Ukrainian Book Institute reports that over 1.5 million books have been destroyed in July alone.

A recent strike on July 22 impacted four companies, destroying around 500,000 books and equipment belonging to publishers Konvi, MISON, Arc.ua, and Knygolav. An additional 350,000 volumes intended for other firms were also damaged. Journalist Yulia Abibok, deeply affected by the destruction, stated, "The pain only magnified mine. It was no longer just about the books." She has since ordered several titles from affected publishers.

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The pain only magnified mine. It was no longer just about the books.

Abibok, like many Ukrainians, finds both professional development and emotional solace in books during wartime. The literary landscape remains dynamic, featuring works by local and international authors, including a growing number of books by veterans and active soldiers. However, the recent attacks represent a significant blow, with estimated losses reaching up to four million euros.

Publishers like MISON, whose office was destroyed, are seeing increased support through social media. "Through our social networks, people are ordering copies and writing messages of support," a MISON representative told EFE. The company is also participating in a fundraising campaign to restore damaged books. At the Ye bookstore in Lviv, staff report a noticeable surge in customers purchasing books from Knygolav, indicating a strong public commitment to preserving Ukrainian culture.

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Through our social networks, people are ordering copies and writing messages of support.