drone attack

Russian drone attack damages Ukraine’s National Library for Children

06.02.2026

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Debris from a Russian drone fell near the building of the National Library of Ukraine for Children, causing damage to the library premises.

 

The shock wave broke 10 windows and damaged balcony doors, in areas used by the youngest readers. Damage was also observed to the walls, foundation, and interior finishes.

 

Cracks were additionally found in the library’s shelter, which was renovated last year with the support of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Ukraine.

“Russia continues to attack the civilian population of Ukraine, and is trying to destroy historical heritage, cultural and educational institutions, spaces where children receive knowledge, support, and a sense of security,” said Bohdana Laiuk, Deputy Minister of Culture of Ukraine.

 

The library is documenting the consequences of the shelling and continues to work for children and their families.

 

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According to the Ministry of Culture, Russia has destroyed or damaged more than 850 libraries in Ukraine since the outbreak of the full-scale invasion. The ministry emphasizes that the shelling of children’s cultural and educational spaces is part of the systematic destruction of humanitarian infrastructure.

 

“The National Library of Ukraine for Children is an incredibly active and lively space, with children and families coming here every day. A few days earlier, the Vsevolod Nestayko Award for the best children’s book was presented at the library. I thank the director and the entire library team, who even during the war continue to develop and preserve it as a place for meeting, reading, and trust,” said Laiuk.

 

“At this moment, our country’s main children’s book home urgently needs restoration,” representatives of the library wrote on their Facebook page. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who is able to support us and our young readers financially in order to help eliminate the consequences of the attack. Our children deserve a bright future, the opportunity to grow into educated and culturally aware individuals, and libraries free from the language of the aggressor.”
Bank details for charitable donations:
EUR: UA263052990000026006016700216
Charitable Organization “Charitable Foundation for the Development of the National Library of Ukraine for Children”
EDRPOU code: 39474339
Payment purpose: Charitable donation

 

Founded in 1967, the National Library of Ukraine for Children is the country’s main children’s library. It is a national repository of children’s literature and a methodological center for children’s and rural libraries. The library’s collection includes over 500,000 copies of books, periodicals, and audiovisual materials.

 

RELATED: Under Russian attack: Buildings of the Sumy State University and the library damaged

 

Images: Ministry of Culture of Ukraine