On August 13, 2026, «Ukrzaliznytsia» introduced an innovative service aimed at supporting Ukrainian book publishing and the country's cultural code. Passengers purchasing train tickets now have the option to order Ukrainian books, which will be delivered directly to their seats in the carriage. This initiative is designed to compensate for the systemic losses suffered by the publishing sector as a result of the full-scale war.
Service Logistics and Availability
The mechanism of the service is maximally simplified for the passenger: the book selection option is integrated into the ticket purchasing process. At the beginning of the journey, the literature will already be waiting for the passenger on their shelf. Currently, the service is available on the carrier's key routes: 4 international directions and 10 flagship domestic trains. This allows for the coverage of both transit tourists and citizens traveling within the country.
Economic Context and Industry Support
The launch of the service is driven by the critical situation in the Ukrainian book business. According to the carrier, Russian strikes on warehouses and printing houses over the last months of the war have led to the destruction of more than 10 million copies of books. Purchasing literature for the journey is positioned not just as entertainment, but as a way to financially support publishing houses, bookstores, and authors whose work has been paralyzed by military actions.
Loyalty Program and Additional Bonuses
«Ukrzaliznytsia» has also integrated this service into its loyalty program. Program participants can use their accumulated «Hugs» (Obnimashky) points to receive additional discounts and bonuses. Special offers from partners cover various formats: e-books, paperbacks, and audiobooks, making cultural support accessible to a wide range of passengers.
Passenger Safety in Wartime Conditions
In the context of ongoing hostilities, the carrier emphasizes safety. Passengers are reminded to strictly follow the action algorithms when an air raid alarm is declared. At stations, it is necessary to immediately head to shelters. If the threat catches passengers directly during the journey, it is critically important to follow the train staff's instructions to protect against missile or air strikes. Instructions from railway workers remain the main tool for preserving life under current conditions.
