**Books Bring Comfort to Ukrainian Community in Reading**
A new library in Reading has become a haven for the local Ukrainian community. The library, sponsored by Swiss charity Reading Studios, is filled with books in Ukrainian and provides a sense of comfort and connection to their homeland.
The library’s volunteer manager, Iryna Bakaliar, said that when people are displaced from their homes, they often forget how much books can mean to them. “You don‘t expect these things in your life,” she said. “When it happens, you’re so shocked and trying to flee to safety.”
**Tears of Joy**
One reader’s emotional reaction to a book in the library is a testament to its importance. A woman from Kharkiv was overcome with emotion when she saw that one of the books was printed in her hometown in 2024. “It smelled like home,” she said, tears streaming down her face.
**A Window to Home**
For Mariia Kondratiuk, using books is a way to transport herself back to her favorite city, Lviv. She has used novels by famous Ukrainian writer Yuri Vynnychuk to remind her of home and feels comforted when reading about places she loves.
**Family Time**
Oksana and her three-year-old daughter Diana use the library’s books to spend quality time together. “When I’m reading [Diana] likes to listen to my voice,” Oksana said. “It makes me feel like we’re at home, without war.”
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