In the heart of Birmingham, in the Bosnian House, a space that has been a place of meeting, support and hope for many communities for years, the first Ukrainian children’s library is opening.
This significant event will be marked on Sunday, May 17, 2026, on the eve of the celebration of Vyshyvanka Day, one of the most important symbols of Ukrainian identity and unity, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary.
As a home for diverse communities that share the experience of displacement and a new beginning, the Bosnian House has been developing content that preserves language, culture and identity for years. The Bosnian Library is already successfully operating within this center, which has become an important resource for our community. With the opening of the Ukrainian library, this concept is further expanded, and there are plans to establish another library that will be available to more than 100 Syrian children who attend the Syrian School, which also operates in the Bosnian House in Birmingham.
The opening of this library is not only a cultural event, it is a strong message of solidarity, understanding and joint action. The library will enable the youngest to preserve their language, learn about their own culture and, most importantly, feel that they have their place in a new environment.
Maria Shvenko, Manager at BH UK Network and Director of Support Activities for the Ukrainian Community at Bosnian House, said:
“This library is a space where children can preserve their language, culture and sense of belonging. At the same time, it is the result of strong cooperation and support that BH UK Network has provided to Ukrainian families from the very beginning and proof that together we can build a safer and better future for the entire community.”
With this project, Bosnian House once again shows how a community, guided by experience and empathy, can provide concrete solutions and create opportunities for new generations. This is precisely where its strength lies – in people who understand each other and build a better tomorrow together.
The opening of the library will be marked by a special program that includes music, poetry and traditional cuisine, and everyone is invited to be part of this special moment.
Because when a community acts together – the possibilities are limitless.
