International Library Cooperation and Trusted News in Times of War. Ukraine Art Aid Center

Abstract

This study explores the collaborative efforts of libraries within the Ukraine Art Aid Center network, dedicated to preserving cultural heritage during times of war. Emphasizing the vital role of international library cooperation, we investigate the dissemination of trusted news in the Russo-Ukrainian war. The first section examines Russia's use of (dis-)information as a weapon in the ongoing war. The second section clarifies key terminology distinctions related to disinformation, misinformation, fake news and deep fakes. In the third section, we scrutinize the importance of accurate language and wording to avoid manipulation and disinformation. The fourth section explores strategies to counter disinformation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Section five highlights the support provided by international library networks in aiding libraries and societies under attack, focusing on the Ukraine Art Aid Center (Zentrum Kulturgutschutz Ukraine). The sixth section presents curated information services and reliable news sources from Ukraine and exiled Russian media. The seventh section underscores libraries' role as providers of access to reliable information on war crimes and human rights violations.