Ukrainian Bookshelf opens at Limassol Municipal Library (pics)

The official opening of the Ukrainian Bookshelf at Limassol Municipal Library has been welcomed as a significant cultural event for the Ukrainian community in Cyprus.

The collection features a variety of genres and includes over 300 Ukrainian books from more than 30 publishers. From now on, anyone interested can find a book to their liking in the library.

This initiative became possible thanks to the Ukrainian-Cypriot Friendship Society and the Soloveyko Ukrainian Bookstore, as well as with the significant support of the Limassol Municipality and the Municipal Library, which helped bring this project to life and provided space for the development of the Ukrainian literary community.

The event was attended by Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis, who expressed his support for the Ukrainian community and emphasised the importance of cultural integration: "Limassol is a multicultural city, and we are open to all cultures. The opening of the Ukrainian Bookshelf is the first step toward active interaction with the Ukrainian community," the mayor stated.

Library Director Georgia Kondolemi emphasised the significance of this project, while the President of the Community of Ukrainian-Cypriot Friendship, Ksenia Mukhortova, expressed her gratitude to the municipality for their support: "Many Ukrainians have found themselves in Cyprus without the opportunity to bring their favourite books. Now, they will have access to Ukrainian publications in the library of a city that is home to the largest Ukrainian diaspora on the island."

Strong community engagement and enthusiasm

The opening generated great interest among Ukrainians in Limassol – the event attracted a large audience, and a lively queue formed at the library's reception desk as visitors eagerly registered for a library membership.

Guests had the opportunity to learn more about the history of the library, explore the new book collection, and participate in workshops and entertainment programs for children.

"We thank every publisher, author, translator, and illustrator who continues to create for us in these challenging times. Books and language unite Ukrainians wherever we may be. Today, Ukrainian literature has become a symbol of unity, filling the Limassol library with the voices of our culture. We are grateful to publishers Ranok, Vivat, Ridna Mova, Artbooks, FC Shakhtar, Kateryna Biloruska Foundation, and the Educational Initiatives Foundation for their initial contributions to the collection, as well as to every guest who helped create this unique space and brought a piece of Ukraine to Cyprus," – commented Natalia Hilevych, owner of the Soloveyko Bookstore.