Public Libraries of Ukraine as Centres of Countering Russian Propaganda in War Conditions

The aim of the article is to study the role of Ukrainian public libraries as centres of countering Russian propaganda war conditions. Research methods. This article uses the following set of approaches and methods: the concept of a library institution as a multifunctional hub or centre. This concept is correlated with the structural-functional, substantive and systemic approaches that help to reveal the potential of restructuring and multidimensionality of public libraries. The study also used the methods of content analysis and intent analysis in the context of professional improving the skills of library workers as an important link in counteracting dangerous and destructive information influences from the Russian Federation as an aggressor country. Scientific novelty. For the first time, the status of Ukrainian public libraries as centres of counteracting Russian propaganda in wartime conditions is studied. Main conclusions. Nowadays, Ukrainian public libraries are facing challenges posed by the Russian-Ukrainian war. One of these challenges is the spread of Russian propaganda and proRussian narratives in the informational space of our country. As multifunctional and community informational centres, public libraries of many regions are turning into centres for countering Russian propaganda, which requires library professionals to change their approaches to working with information sources, web resources and social media, as well as with their visitors. Along with providing psychological help and active volunteer support, Ukrainian public libraries are intensifying social and communication activities related to the protection of the information space, namely, the fight against fakes, disinformation and cyber threats. They are focusing on information hygiene and persistently conducting educational work, understanding that media literacy and media prosumerism are important components in countering Russian propaganda.