Library Initiatives to Preserve the Memory of the SVO in the Donetsk People’s Republic

Using the activities of the Donetsk Republican Universal Scientific Library named after N.K. Krupskaya (DRUSL) as an example, this article presents an analysis of library practices for preserving the historical memory of the events of the Special Military Operation (SVO). Given the development of historical knowledge and the strengthening role of cultural institutions in civic-patriotic education and social consolidation, it is necessary to understand contemporary library practices. Library initiatives are considered comprehensively as multi-level systems of socio-cultural activity integrating traditional and innovative forms of work. This is realized through exhibition projects, documentary and literary displays, and interactive formats using digital technologies. The article describes the main areas of activity of the DRUSL, aimed at capturing and disseminating contemporary evidence: organizing exhibitions (in particular, “Father of a Hero”, “Heroes of the SVO as the Pride of Russia”, “Hall of Military Glory”), creating thematic exhibits, holding comprehensive events (“The Truth About the SVO: Know and Remember”), as well as presentations of publications by participants in the events and war correspondents (for example, G.A. Medvedev’s book “Along the Military Road: Gorlovka, Yasinovataya, Shebekino”, I.N. Solovyov’s works “Father Vladimir” and “Voices of Victory. War Stories”). Particular attention is paid to the use of multimedia solutions as tools for expanding the communication space and engaging a young audience. An important area of activity for the libraries is participating in the compilation and publication of books dedicated to the SVO. For example, together with the Russian State Library, DRUSL implemented three publishing projects: “The Military Glory of Donbass” (2024), “The Chief Private of the Donetsk Land: Literature of the Fighting Donbass” (2025), and “Saur-Mogila: From Legend to Feat” (2025). The results of this work suggest that the library is transforming into an active center for the formation of collective memory, ensuring the preservation of documentary and cultural heritage and fostering the development of social values.