Regulatory and Legal Support of Librarianship and Operation of Libraries in Ukraine: Current Status, Problematic Issues and Ways to Address Them

Abstract

Objective. This study aims to assess the alignment of Ukraine’s regulatory framework with the current requirements for the development of librarianship, to identify the key challenges hindering the integration of Ukrainian libraries into the global information environment, and to propose possible solutions. Methods. The research is based on a set of general and specialized methods of scientific inquiry, including analysis, synthesis, processing of a wide range of information sources, generalization, and the application of the principles of scientific objectivity and systematicity, which together contributed to the achievement of the research objectives. Results. The study identifies a number of issues within Ukraine’s library sector that require improvements in the regulatory and legal framework. These include: restructuring of the library network, enhancement of governance in the library sphere, modernization of the regulatory basis for collection development, and adoption of state targeted programmes for sectorial development. Conclusions. Library legislation establishes the requirements and principles of library operation, providing access to information, support for education and science, preservation of historical and cultural heritage and cultural development of society, aimed at harmonising legal norms with international law. The development of librarianship will be ensured through state support, funding, material and technical resources, staffing, coordination of activities, etc.