Ukrainian Bookshelf launched at dlr LexIcon Library

This week, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council hosted the launch of the Ukrainian Bookshelf initiative at dlr LexIcon Library. The event was attended by Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland, H.E. Ms Larysa Gerasko, and Ms Tetiana Sybiha, spouse of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, who was visiting Dublin at the time.

Delivered in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in Ireland, the initiative sees the donation of a curated collection of Ukrainian literature to dlr Libraries. The collection includes titles across poetry, fiction, history and children’s literature, in both Ukrainian and English. 

The Ukrainian Bookshelf forms part of a wider international project led by the First Lady of Ukraine, Ms Olena Zelenska, which promotes Ukrainian literature worldwide and encourages greater cultural understanding. The Ukrainian Bookshelf collection will be soon available to the public at dlr LexIcon, further strengthening dlr Libraries’ commitment to accessible, inclusive and culturally diverse services.

Speaking at the launch, Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said:

“We are honoured to welcome our Ukrainian partners to dlr LexIcon for the launch of this important initiative. The Ukrainian Bookshelf is a meaningful addition to our library service, offering our communities an opportunity to engage with the richness of Ukrainian literature and heritage, while reflecting our shared commitment to inclusion and cultural exchange.”

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council noted:

"Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is proud to support this initiative, which strengthens cultural connections and celebrates the diversity of communities within the county. This partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine highlights the role of libraries in fostering international collaboration and providing access to diverse voices and perspectives.”

Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland, H.E. Ms Larysa Gerasko added:

"We are profoundly grateful to the wonderful team at dlr LexIcon for their warmth, openness, and generous support in making the opening of the Ukrainian Bookshelf in Dún Laoghaire possible.  We are also deeply thankful to An Cathaoirleach Jim Gildea for his kindness and solidarity. Initiatives such as this serve as a powerful bridge, helping to bring the Ukrainian and Irish people even closer together."