Public Libraries in Denmark Open Digital Doors to The Human Library

In a groundbreaking collaboration, three Danish public libraries – Aarhus, Albertslund, and Roskilde – have joined forces with The Human Library to bring a new kind of reading experience to their patrons.

With generous support from the Velux Foundation, the partnership will make it possible for residents in the three municipalities to obtain a free digital library card granting online access to The Human Library. The initiative is set to launch in the spring of 2026.

Through this project, residents will be able to “borrow” human books online – real people who volunteer to share their personal stories and experiences through a live video meeting. The concept allows readers to challenge prejudice and explore topics such as identity, disability, religion, and mental health in a safe and respectful setting. The digital bookshelf will bring together readers and “books” from all over Denmark in a format that is both intimate and accessible.

Must be 18 or older

Citizens over the age of 18 will be eligible to obtain a Human Library digital library card through their local public library. Once registered, readers can browse the online catalogue, select a “book,” and join a video conversation. The system mirrors the familiar structure of a public library but replaces printed pages with human dialogue. In principle everyone interested can gain axcess to the Human Library Online. Students to become social workers, teachers and nurses are already on the platform as part of their education.

A milestone for the Human Library

Founder of The Human Library, Ronni Abergel, sees the new initiative as a significant milestone in the organization’s 25-year journey:

“This is a milestone for us and, in a way, historic. For the first time, public libraries in Denmark are actively helping to distribute our online learning opportunity to the public. It will be exciting to see how many people take advantage of this great opportunity and pick up a Human Library card at their local library.”

Since its founding in Copenhagen in 2000, The Human Library has grown into a global movement with books published in more than 85 countries. The organization’s mission is to create safe spaces for dialogue and understanding by allowing people to “read” others.

Spring launch

The partnership with the Danish public libraries marks an important step toward greater accessibility and digital inclusion. By making the Human Library available through familiar and trusted local institutions, the project hopes to reach new readers who may not have encountered the concept before. At each location we will have “reading stations” set up so that readers can join through their local library branch or get their own library card and logon from home.

As the spring 2026 launch approaches, public libraries in the cities Aarhus, Albertslund, and Roskilde are preparing to welcome this innovative addition to their services – one that invites citizens not just to borrow a book, but to start a conversation.