Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow

Introduction

The Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow, established in 1989, was a significant cultural institution devoted to preserving and promoting Ukrainian literary heritage in Russia’s capital. For nearly three decades, it served the Ukrainian diaspora, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts by offering access to an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and archival materials. The library was much more than a repository—it fostered community engagement, supported academic research, and hosted cultural events that bridged Russian and Ukrainian societies. Though it was closed in 2017 amid heightened political tensions, its legacy persists through successor collections, digital archives, and ongoing cultural initiatives. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the library’s history, its cultural significance, practical information for visitors seeking Ukrainian literature in Moscow today, and alternative resources for continued engagement.

Foundation and Early Development

Founded during a period of increased openness to minority cultures at the twilight of the Soviet Union, the Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow was inaugurated to serve Moscow’s large Ukrainian community and to provide access to Ukrainian-language materials otherwise scarce in Russia (Wikipedia: Ukrainian literature). Initially operating as a branch of the Moscow Centralized Library System, it began with several thousand donated volumes, quickly growing to become a unique academic and cultural hub.

Expansion and Community Role

By the late 1990s and 2000s, the library’s collection exceeded 50,000 items, encompassing books, periodicals, archival documents, and rare editions by renowned Ukrainian authors such as Taras Shevchenko, Ivan Franko, Lesia Ukrainka, and contemporary voices like Oksana Zabuzhko and Serhiy Zhadan (Wikipedia: History of Ukrainian literature). Beyond its shelves, the library was a vibrant center for language classes, literary evenings, exhibitions, and lectures. It played an essential role in cultural exchange, fostering a sense of identity among Moscow’s Ukrainian diaspora and supporting academic research in Ukrainian studies (RFE/RL).

Cultural and Educational Significance

The library served as a cultural bridge between Russian and Ukrainian communities, promoting dialogue through literature, art, and public events. It supported digitization projects, collaborating with Ukrainian and international partners to make rare works available online, thus extending its reach to the global Ukrainian diaspora and researchers worldwide (destinations.ua). The institution became a sanctuary for the preservation of Ukrainian language and culture, vital for an estimated 1.9 million ethnic Ukrainians residing in Russia.

Political Challenges and Closure

Growing Tensions and Suppression

The library’s trajectory was dramatically altered by escalating Russia-Ukraine tensions, particularly after 2014. In 2015, Russian authorities raided the library, accusing it of disseminating “extremist” materials. Its director, Natalya Sharina, was arrested and later convicted on charges widely condemned as politically motivated (The Moscow Times; The Atlantic). The closure of the library in 2017 marked a significant setback for Ukrainian cultural representation in Moscow.

Broader Context

The fate of the library reflects a broader historical pattern of cultural suppression, from Tsarist and Soviet-era censorship to contemporary restrictions on Ukrainian language and literature in Russia (Platform RAAM). The closure has isolated Ukrainian voices in Russia and highlighted the precariousness of minority cultural institutions amid political conflict.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Although the original library ceased to exist as an independent institution, its materials were partially integrated into other Moscow public libraries, notably the Center of Slavic Cultures at the Rudomino (Foreign Literature) Library. Digital preservation efforts, such as the Electronic Library of Ukrainian Literature, and activism by former staff and diaspora organizations continue to sustain access to Ukrainian literary heritage. The library’s story remains a powerful symbol of resilience and the ongoing struggle for cultural memory and identity (The Atlantic).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

• Original Location: 61 Trifonovskaya Street, Moscow (no longer accessible).
• Current Access Point: Center of Slavic Cultures at the Rudomino Library (Central Library of Foreign Literature).
  • Address: Nikoloyamskaya St., 1, Moscow, 109189
  • Metro: Taganskaya or Marksistskaya stations
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

• Center of Slavic Cultures (Rudomino Library):
  • Open Monday–Saturday, 10:00–20:00; closed Sundays and public holidays. Always confirm hours on the official website.
  • Admission is free; registration with a valid passport or ID is required for a library card.
  • Reading room access is available; photography is generally prohibited in reading areas.

Travel Tips and Local Regulations

• Advance Planning: Contact libraries prior to your visit to confirm access to Ukrainian collections.
• Registration: Bring valid photo identification for all major libraries.
• Language: Russian is the primary language at most institutions; English-speaking staff may be limited.
• Legal Precautions: Exercise discretion with Ukrainian materials due to the current political climate. Visitors should consult travel advisories and observe local regulations (IVisa Travel; The Moscow Times).

Nearby Attractions

• Taganka Theater
• Historic Tagansky District
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Museum of the History of Moscow

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow still open?
No. The original library closed in 2017. Ukrainian literature collections can now be found at the Center of Slavic Cultures (Rudomino Library) and other major Moscow libraries.

Do I need tickets to visit?
Admission is free, but registration with ID is required for access to reading rooms.

Are guided tours available?
No regular tours. Some special events may include talks or presentations; check event calendars.

Can I access Ukrainian literature elsewhere in Moscow?
Yes. The Russian State Library, Moscow State University Library, and Pushkin State Library hold Ukrainian works, though collections are smaller and access may be restricted.

What digital resources are available?
Online libraries like the Electronic Library of Ukrainian Literature, SUCHO, and Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute offer extensive Ukrainian literary collections.

Visual and Media Suggestions

• Photographs of the original Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow (alt: "Library of Ukrainian Literature Moscow visiting hours")
• Images of the Center of Slavic Cultures’ reading rooms and entrance
• Map showing both the original library and successor institutions (alt: "Moscow historical sites for Ukrainian literature")
• Screenshots of digital archives like SUCHO and the Electronic Library of Ukrainian Literature