The European Investment Bank (EIB) has provided funding for the renovation of a city library in Mariupol, Ukraine.
The funding, released under the EIB’s Early Recovery Programme, has enabled a full structural restoration of Korolenko City Library in Mariupol, Ukraine’s 10th largest city. The library, which was selected to receive funding under the programme due to its cultural and educational significance, has undergone full restoration of its façade, roof insulation and cladding; as well as a comprehensive renovation of its interior wiring and lighting fixtures.
Jean-Erik de Zagon, Head of the EIB Office in Ukraine, said: “This project is very special and unique in a way for us. [A] number of important infrastructure projects that we are implementing currently in Mariupol are aimed at solving this region’s present challenges; from connectivity to access to clean drinking water. Reconstruction of this library is no less important – it aims at ensuring the region’s prosperous and successful future. Major renovation has turned this facility into a modern e-library with its limitless possibilities to access various sources of information, to study and gain new knowledge – which is vital for the further development of Mariupol and the Donbass region.”
The newly restored Korolenko City Library will include an ‘e-library’ facility, allowing users to access 270,000 books. The funding comes as part of the EIB’s wider programme of support for infrastructure and quality of life in Ukraine’s Donbass region.
Vadym Boichenko, Mayor of Mariupol, said: “Since today, Korolenko library will receive a new life. Jointly with the European Investment Bank and ‘SocialBoost’ organisation, we have not just renovated the building’s façade and conducted renovation inside: we have changed the very philosophy of this place. I am convinced that this place will become a new attractive focal point for the local youth. Through [the] modern format of the library we will cultivate [a] reading habit among the local kids.”
