On  27 January 2025 a significant milestone in international cultural cooperation was achieved as the National Library of the Czech Republic officially handed over the mobile conservation workplace “Archa I” to the Yaroslav Mudryi National Library of Ukraine in Kyiv. This unique and innovative mobile unit is designed to assist in the preservation and restoration of Ukrainian written heritage, which has been severely affected by the ongoing war.

The mobile conservation unit was developed as part of a broader initiative to support Ukrainian libraries, archives, and cultural institutions facing the risk of destruction. The project has been made possible through the financial support of the Czech Ministry of Culture, private donors and the expertise of Czech specialists in book conservation and restoration.

Equipped with conservation tools, “Archa I” will provide Ukrainian experts with the necessary resources to stabilise, restore, and protect invaluable historical documents and books. The mobile unit is adaptable and can be deployed to various locations, allowing specialists to work directly in affected areas, minimising the risk of further deterioration during transportation of the damaged documents.

During the official handover ceremony in Kyiv, representatives from both the Czech and Ukrainian national libraries highlighted the importance of international collaboration in safeguarding cultural heritage. The Director-General of the National Library of the Czech Republic previously emphasised that “Archa I” symbolises solidarity and shared responsibility for protecting humanity’s written legacy.

This initiative is part of a series of ongoing efforts to support Ukrainian cultural institutions during the current crisis. The success of “Archa I” may also serve as a model for future projects aiming to protect cultural heritage in conflict zones worldwide.