Deineka Yaroslav

Library Institutions in Wartime: the Experience of Great Britain during the Second World War

Abstract: The article examines the profound impact of World War II on the British library system, highlighting challenges, adaptations, and contributions that mark one of the most turbulent periods in modern history. Libraries faced significant disruptions, including the destruction of collections besause of bombings, the evacuation of rare and valuable materials to safe locations, and severe budget cuts. Despite these challenges, libraries emerged as critical institutions, providing access to essential information, supporting public morale, and preserving cultural heritage. The research explores how libraries adjusted to wartime conditions by shortening operating hours, restricting access to certain materials, and implementing innovative solutions suchas mobile libraries and educational programs for both civilians and military personnel. These efforts ensured continued access to knowledge, fostering resilience in the population. The role of libraries in safeguarding national heritage is emphasized through their meticulous evacuation of irreplaceable collections, which demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving cultural identity. Post-war recovery is analyzed, focusing on the return of evacuated materials, reconstruction of destroyed library buildings, and the replenishment and modernization of collections. The study underlines the importance of libraries as adaptive and resilient institutions that were not only capable of overcoming wartime challenges but also evolved to meet the demands of a changing society in the aftermath of the war. By investigating these historical processes, the article contributes to the broader understanding of the evolution of library systems in crisis times and draws lessons applicable to the modern context, including the preservation of cultural heritage and the role of libraries in contemporary conflicts. The findings provide valuable insights for library professionals and policymakers seeking to address similar challenges in currentand future crises, highlighting the enduring relevance of libraries in fostering social cohesion, education, and cultural preservation.

Keywords: Second World War, libraries, Great Britain, evacuation of funds, adaptation of libraries, support of morale.

  Full-text PDF    https://doi.org/10.15407/np.73.153     Citation

• Deineka Yaroslav (V. I. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine, Ukraine, Kyiv, [email protected]) ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4073-7106

Cite:
Deineka Yaroslav (2024). Library Institutions in Wartime: the Experience of Great Britain during the Second World War. Academic Papers of V. I. Vernadskyi National Library of Ukraine, (73) 153-164. (In Ukrainan). doi: https://doi.org/10.15407/np.73.153

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