Established in 2011, Cycling for libraries is an international cycling conference for librarians and library enthusiasts. It aims to promote libraries and to raise awareness of the services and resources that libraries offer to their audiences. In France and in French-speaking countries, this project is called Cyclo-biblio.

Cycling for libraries work in collaboration with local library associations and international organizations such as IFLA and EBLIDA. Cycling for libraries is proud to collaborate with major actors in the field of European libraries.

Cycling for libraries is both a politically and economically independent conference and a bicycle tour. It contributes to the physical and mental well-being of library professionals, promotes networking at both local and international levels, and above all, emphasizes the crucial role of libraries for society and for intellectual and scientific education in general. Cycling for libraries also supports environmental values and a green lifestyle. Cycling for libraries is directly inspired by the many values of librarianship. These values include openness, freedom of access to information, lifelong learning and innovation. Librarianship is also by its very nature humanistic, internationalist, cross-border and practical.

Cycling for libraries a pioneer in modern networking for professionals

Cycling, especially long-distance cycling, surpasses golf as the preferred means of networking for today’s professionals according to The Economist in its April 26, 2013 issue. There are several reasons for this. First, cycling as a group fosters team spirit while golf is more competitive. Long-distance riding also relieves stress while focusing on the essentials. By riding in a group, cyclists work as a team, taking turns to ride, which requires more work but benefits everyone, according to The Economist.


Cycling for libraries is a professional event for everyone who works for libraries – as well as all library enthusiasts, of course. So, naturally, the content is about libraries, librarianship, and everything in between. As a traveling conference, Cycling for libraries offers visits to local libraries and meetings with colleagues who work there. Large and small libraries alike are on the tour program.
Cycling for libraries is an “unconference”, which means that PowerPoint presentations are not on the agenda, nor are lectures in a lecture hall. Instead, there will be workshops, debates, and demonstrations to see, touch, hear, and engage in a more meaningful way. The program is not dictated by the organizers, the content is determined by the participants themselves. Through the bike ride, it’s a discovery of the real environment in which libraries and librarians operate. And, yes… there will be biking.
How did this all start?
It all started more than 10 years ago with a dream, to cycle around continental Europe and discuss, informally and in good company, issues related to libraries and their future. At the EBLIDA conference in Helsinki in 2010, a group of enthusiastic Finnish librarians became interested in the idea and decided to get involved in this adventure. The goal was to organize an unconference while exploring how librarians can cope with a 650 km challenge. They wanted to believe that a collective journey over such a long distance was a kind of metaphor for the situation and challenges facing libraries today. How the participating librarians would survive would demonstrate their ability to deal with challenges, not just professional ones. The organizers consider that digital technology is certainly a challenge to the survival of libraries and their services. Libraries will not be able to survive without major changes. But who will take up the challenge of change? That’s what they wanted to know. And that’s what they continue to look for, as the challenges become more and more concrete…
The first real kick-off for the Cycling for libraries group came during the 2010 IFLA Congress in Gothenburg, Sweden. The rough idea of a cycling unconference of librarians was quickly put into motion, which had been a dream until then. They organized a 70 km test ride from Borås to Gothenburg and the next few days they presented the idea without posters, booths or PowerPoint, just talking to people and handing out 800 cataloging card-like cards to IFLA visitors. It was fun to do and, in fact, the method proved to be a great way to get inside the international IFLA congress community.
A few months later they did their first bike route reconnaissance in Denmark and Germany. They rented cars in Copenhagen and Rostock to be able to assess the bike paths and options in case they needed to change the route. They flew to meet with people from the libraries and library organizations to present the project. They needed to know each other well to complete the project. They were happy – and they are always happy when they meet their library colleagues – to discover that the professional and political aspects of Cycling for libraries as well as its potential in terms of communication were important to all of them. The warm welcome from their partners is always a real boost and one of the main reasons they organize these Cycling for libraries events.

From the beginning, Cycling for libraries wanted to take advantage of the new social media and communication tools for the organization of the event. Every year the organizing group is composed of Finnish librarians on the one hand and organizers from the countries where the congress is located on the other. They are really in the field of cooperation and they gladly accept the fact that most of their partners are abroad. Although Cycling for libraries is much more about face-to-face interaction and interesting meetings, especially in terms of participants, the web plays a key role in organizing and communicating the event worldwide for all those who want to keep libraries alive and functioning.

Click here for more about Cycling for Libraries

While it is possible to attend individual sessions to meet colleagues for the purpose of information sharing and library promotion, we suggest completing the whole ride. Pick a bicycle you are comfortable covering long ground on, such as a gravel bike like the Boardman ADV 8.9E, which are currently very popular, a road bike which is faster but perhaps a little less comfortable over longer distances, a hybrid bike which provides greater comfort over urban terrain, or a Voodoo mountain bike like the Voodoo Braag or a Carrera mountain bike such as the classic Carrera Vengeance if you want the ultimate in off road comfort for an affordable price.

If you prefer some assistance on the hills or over longer distances, then an e-bike such as the Carrera Vengeance E-Bike or a Pendleton Electric Bike Please ensure any e-bikes are legal in the countries the tour is passing through.

Bikes we like right now

Boardman ADV 8.9e The Boardman ADV 8.9e is a fast and practical electric gravel bike that blends the speed of a road bike with a relaxed position and off-road focused geometry. With the Fazua Evation drive system, versatile design, and well-balanced ride, it’s perfect for UK adventures.

Boardman HYB 8.9e Womens

Boardman ADV 9.4 Experience top of the range cycling with an all-new C10 Carbon frame, SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 12-speed wireless shifting, and SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes, perfect for challenging journey.

Boardman ADV 9.0 An exhilarating union of Shimano GRX gravel-specific groupset, C10 Carbon Frame and Fork, and Panaracer Gravel King SK Tyres, for a weight-efficient and versatile ride on asphalt and dirt.

Boardman ADV 8.9

Boardman ADV 8.6 An adventure bike with a versatile design and advanced technology, the Boardman ADV 8.6 delivers comfort, control, and performance on any terrain.

Boardman ADV 8.6 Women’s The Boardman ADV 8.6 Women’s is a versatile and capable bike that offers a comfortable and confident ride on and off-road. With its high-quality components and thoughtful design, this bike is a top choice for female riders looking for exceptional performance and control.

Boardman CXR 8.9 The CXR 8.9 is a high-performance cyclocross bike that delivers exceptional agility, responsiveness, and durability. Equipped with top-of-the-line components, it’s perfect for the serious racer or off-road enthusiast.

Boardman URB 8.9 The Boardman URB 8.9 offers a low-maintenance urban cycling experience with its sleek design, lightweight frame, and powerful braking system. Say goodbye to chain maintenance and hello to hassle-free riding.

Boardman URB 8.6 The Boardman URB 8.6 is a lightweight urban bike designed for low-maintenance commuting. With its stylish aluminium frame, Shimano Nexus 3-speed hub, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, it offers a reliable and efficient ride for urban commuters.

Boardman HYB 8.9e An exceptional electric hybrid bike with a powerful Fazua Evation drive system, advanced technology, and reliable performance, perfect for enhancing fitness, having fun, and commuting with ease.

Boardman HYB 8.9 A high-performance hybrid bike with top-quality components and unrivalled comfort.

Boardman HYB 8.8 The Boardman HYB 8.8 is a versatile hybrid bike designed for leisure and fitness purposes. With a lightweight frame, reliable drivetrain, and powerful brakes, it delivers performance and comfort on various terrains.

Boardman HYB 8.8 Women’s The Boardman HYB 8.8 Women’s is a high-performance hybrid bike that combines a lightweight frame, off-road gearing, and powerful disc brakes for a thrilling and versatile ride.

Boardman HYB 8.6 The Boardman HYB 8.6 Green is a high-performance hybrid bike featuring a lightweight triple butted aluminium frame, a wide range Shimano Alivio drivetrain, and reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. 

Boardman HYB 8.6 Women’s Lightweight triple butted aluminium frame, wide range Shimano Alivio gears, and reliable Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, this bike offers speed, performance, and versatility for various terrains and riding styles.

Boardman MTX 8.9 The Boardman MTX 8.9 is a versatile front suspension hybrid designed for off-road adventures and urban commuting. With its lightweight frame, advanced technology, and exceptional performance, this bike excels in any terrain.

Boardman MTX 8.8 The Boardman MTX 8.8 is a high-performing front suspension hybrid bike that combines comfort and versatility. With its lightweight frame, responsive suspension fork, puncture-resistant tires, and comfortable saddle, this bike is perfect for tackling any terrain.

Boardman MTX 8.8 Women’s A high-performing hybrid bike designed with the female rider in mind, offering comfort, efficiency, and versatility for tackling any terrain with confidence.

Boardman MTX 8.6 The Boardman MTX 8.6 is a high-performance multi-terrain bike that delivers exceptional control, comfort, and versatility. With a lightweight aluminium frame, advanced suspension, and top-notch components, this bike is built for adventure and exploration.

Boardman MTX 8.6 Women’s The Boardman MTX 8.6 Women’s is a versatile and high-performance multi-terrain crossover bike designed specifically for female riders. With its lightweight frame, powerful components, and comfortable ride, it’s the perfect companion for any cycling adventure.

Boardman MHT 8.6 The Boardman MHT 8.6 is a high-performance mountain bike designed for UK riders. With its lightweight frame, trail geometry, and quality components, this bike delivers exceptional performance on various terrains. Whether you’re shredding singletrack or climbing steep trails, the MHT 8.6 is the perfect companion for your off-road adventures.

Boardman MHT 8.6 Women’s The Boardman MHT 8.6 Women’s is a top-performing mountain bike designed for female riders. With its advanced features and trail-friendly design, it offers an exceptional riding experience on any terrain.

Boardman MHT 8.8 The Boardman MHT 8.8 is a high-performance 29er mountain bike designed for cross-country and trail riding. With its lightweight frame, advanced components, and exceptional geometry, this bike delivers unmatched agility and control in any terrain.

Boardman MHT 8.8 Womens The Boardman MHT 8.8 Women’s is a powerhouse mountain bike designed to tackle rugged terrains and push your limits. With top-of-the-line components and exceptional performance, it’s the ultimate companion for adrenaline-seeking riders.

Boardman MHT 8.9 The Boardman MHT 8.9 is a high-performance mountain bike with a lightweight frame, SRAM’s 12-speed SX Eagle drivetrain, powerful Level T hydraulic disc brakes, and agile handling. Conquer any trail with confidence and enjoy the thrill of off-road riding.

Boardman MTR 8.6 The Boardman MTR 8.6 is a trail-conquering powerhouse that delivers unparalleled performance and control on any terrain. With its top-of-the-line components and advanced design, this bike is a game-changer in the world of mountain biking.

Boardman MTR 8.8 The Boardman MTR 8.8 is a trail-riding machine that combines advanced technology, durable construction, and precision handling. With its trail-ready geometry and top-notch components, this bike is built to conquer any trail with confidence.

Boardman MTR 8.8 Women’s The Boardman MTR 8.8 Women’s MTB is a high-performance mountain bike designed to take your trail riding to new heights. With its top-of-the-line components and trail-ready geometry, this bike offers unmatched performance and control.

Boardman MTR 8.9 The Boardman MTR 8.9 is a trail-ready full suspension rig that offers exceptional performance and versatility. With its top-of-the-line components, comfortable geometry, and advanced suspension system, it’s the perfect choice for riders looking to tackle any trail with confidence.

Boardman MTR 9.0 The Boardman MTR 9.0 is a trail-blazing mountain bike designed to take on any terrain with confidence. With its upgraded X9 Alloy frame, RockShox suspension, and Shimano SLX groupset, this bike offers unparalleled performance for riders seeking adventure.

Boardman SLR 8.6 The Boardman SLR 8.6 offers market-leading performance without compromising on comfort or quality. With its lightweight frame, reliable components, and versatile nature, it’s the perfect road bike for riders of all levels.

Boardman SLR 8.6 Women’s The Boardman SLR 8.6 Women’s is the ultimate road bike for women cyclists who crave top-notch performance and comfort. With its lightweight frame, advanced components, and female-specific design, this bike is ready to take on any challenge.

Boardman SLR 8.8 The Boardman SLR 8.8 is a high-spec aluminium road bike that offers fast and comfortable riding with precise handling. Its lightweight frame, wide gear range, and versatile performance make it an excellent choice for sportives, commutes, and recreational rides.

Boardman SLR 8.9 The Boardman SLR 8.9 is a high-performance road bike with a lightweight carbon frame, updated shifting technology, and optimized contact points, making it a top contender for riders seeking a versatile and fast ride.

Boardman SLR 8.9 Women’s The Boardman SLR 8.9 Women’s is a lightweight and high-performance road bike built for female riders. With its aerodynamic design, advanced components, and optimized geometry, this bike delivers an exceptional ride in any conditions.

Boardman SLR 8.9 Disc The Boardman SLR 8.9 Disc Carbon offers unmatched speed, comfort, and performance, making it the top choice for serious riders.

Boardman SLR 9.6 Disc The Boardman SLR 9.6 Disc Carbon is a high-performance road bike built for speed, comfort, and versatility. With its lightweight frame, advanced technology, and aerodynamic design, this bike will take your riding to the next level.

Voodoo Limba An alloy-framed adventurer equipped with a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and a sturdy steel fork, ready to tackle both roads and trails with ease and reliability.

Voodoo Nakisi Featuring a rugged alloy frame, powerful mechanical disc brakes, and a versatile Shimano Sora 2×9 drivetrain, this bike is a reliable companion for both gritty off-road adventures and smooth-sailing commutes.

Voodoo Marasa Designed for the cosmopolitan cyclist, this hybrid features an alloy frameset, a Shimano Altus 2×9 drivetrain, 160mm hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable rigid fork, making it an excellent choice for both city commutes and leisurely rides on mixed surfaces.

Voodoo Wazoo With its award-winning design, the frameset is crafted from alloy featuring modern trail geometry, 2×9 Shimano Alivio groupset, and Clarks Clout hydraulic disc brakes, making it equipped for technical handling and powerful stopping power.

Voodoo Braag A trail-ready alloy hardtail outfitted with Microshift Advent 1×9 drivetrain, Clarks Clout Hydraulic Disc Brakes, and a robust Suntour XCM32-NLO coil fork, offering a fully dialled ride on a variety of terrain.

Voodoo Soukri Constructed with a women-specific alloy frame, equipped with a Microshift Advent 1×9 drivetrain and Clarks Clout hydraulic disc brakes, featuring a robust Suntour coil fork for precision control on rugged terrain.

Voodoo Bizango Experience the fusion of a meticulously crafted alloy frameset, a Shimano Deore 1×11 drivetrain, and the reliability of Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, all rounded off with the precision of a Suntour Raidon air fork.

Voodoo Bizango Pro An expertly engineered all-terrain beast, boasting a lightweight alloy frame, RockShox 35 Gold Air fork, and powerful Shimano MT400 hydraulic disc brakes, combined with a Shimano Deore 1×12 drivetrain for unparalleled riding precision and performance.

Voodoo Horde A versatile hardtail equipped with a Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and a 120mm travel Suntour Air fork, all poised on a responsive alloy frame with tubeless-ready wheels for trail-enduring performance.

Apollo Metis Electric Bike This hybrid e-bike features a lightweight aluminium frame, intuitive 6-speed Shimano Tourney gearing, front-hub motor assistance up to 15.5mph, and robust V-Brakes, supported by reliable Samsung battery cells.

Apollo Phaze E Bike A versatile electric mountain bike featuring a durable alloy frame, reliable Shimano Tourney 6-speed gearing, an adept Shengei motor for steady climbs, and V-Brakes for controlled stopping – perfect for enhancing trail rides and off-road explorations.

Apollo Transport Electric Folding Bike A lightweight aluminium frame, puncture-resistant CST tyres, a 6-speed Shimano TY-21 gearbox, and front-hub motor with speed sensor, all culminate to create this practical folding electric bike designed to elevate commuting comfort and efficiency.

Apollo Tuck Folding Bike A lightweight aluminium frameset and 6-speed Shimano drivetrain, combined with responsive 20″ wheels and reliable V-brakes, define this practical yet performance-oriented folding bike.

Apollo Belmont Featuring an alloy frame, Shimano Tourney 21 speed drivetrain, and V-Brakes together with a gel saddle and puncture-resistant 700x38c tyres, this bike is tailored for comfortable, resilient urban cycling.

Apollo Cafe Bike This versatile hybrid bike offers a smooth ride thanks to its resilient steel frame and rigid forks, equipped with an easy-to-use 6-speed Shimano drivetrain, V-brakes for reliable stopping power, and 700c wheels with K-184 tyres ensuring a grip suited for city commuting and recreational outings.

Apollo Cosmo This hybrid bike features a lightweight alloy frameset, intuitive 18-speed Shimano Tourney gearing, and confident steel V-brakes, with a rigid suspension setup perfect for both road and light trail use.

Apollo Elyse An elegant and practical hybrid bike, featuring an alloy frame, easy-to-use Shimano 21-speed gear system, alloy V-brakes, and reliable Kenda tyres designed for comfortable commuting and leisurely cycles.

Apollo Excelle Womens Hybrid Bike A reliable steel-framed hybrid bike with Shimano Tourney gearing, V-Brakes, and 700c Kenda tyres designed for a comfortable, controlled, and versatile ride in various settings.

Apollo Guru An alloy-framed hybrid with front suspension and Shimano Tourney derailleurs, complemented by capable 700c Kenda tyres and reliable V-brakes, the Apollo Guru ensures a comfy riding experience.

Apollo Transfer Featuring a rugged steel frame, Shimano Tourney 18-speed drivetrain, and responsive V-brakes, this hybrid bike is built for comfortable rides and reliable performance across varied terrain.

Apollo Transition Featuring a lightweight alloy frame with 18-speed Shimano Tourney gearing and 27.5″ wheels with Kenda tyres, this hybrid bike delivers excellent control and versatility across both urban and park environments.

Apollo Virtue Womens Hybrid Bike With a lightweight alloy frame, smooth Shimano Tourney 18-speed gearing, and reliable V-brakes, complemented by front suspension for added comfort.

Apollo Entice An adaptable hardtail mountain bike featuring a lightweight alloy frame, efficient Shimano Tourney gear shifting, and reliable mechanical disc brakes, perfect for both urban commuting and off-road thrills.

Apollo Evade An alloy-framed mountain machine with Shimano Tourney Revoshift 21-speed groupset, front suspension, and mechanical disc brakes for diverse trail encounters and reliable all-weather stopping power.

Apollo Incessant An agile and responsive frameset with dependable Shimano Tourney derailleurs, mechanical disc brakes, and 27.5-inch wheels equipped with Kenda K-1027 tyres create a mountain bike ready for exhilarating adventures.

Apollo Jewel Bike This lightweight alloy-framed mountain bike is equipped with an LTWOO groupset and V-Brakes, featuring 60mm front fork travel for tackling trails with confidence.

Apollo Phaze A lightweight alloy frame, combined with an 18 speed Shimano Tourney Revoshift gearset and front suspension with 60mm travel, make this mountain bike equipped for handling both climbs and descents on your favourite trails.

Apollo Radar An alloy and steel dual-frame setup with Shimano Tourney Revoshift 18 speed gears, Clarks CMD-17 disc braking at the front, and 27.5″ all-terrain tires make for a resilient and versatile trail companion.

Apollo Slant With a durable steel frameset, reliable Shimano Tourney derailleurs, and steadfast V-Brakes, this mountain bike is engineered for performance and comfort on off-road adventures.

Apollo Spiral Womens Mountain Bike Elevate your off-road escapades with a combination of a durable alloy and steel frame, full suspension system, confidence-inspiring V-brakes, and the adaptability of an 18-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain.

Apollo Twilight This steel-framed hardtail mountain bike features front suspension, a reliable Shimano Tourney Revoshift 18 speed gear set and V-Brakes, suitable for a variety of off-road challenges.

Apollo Valier A lightweight full alloy frame paired with front suspension, 21-speed Shimano Tourney trigger shift gears, and 180mm mechanical disc brakes distinguish this mountain bike for dynamic off-road cycling.

Apollo Paradox A swift and stylish alloy-framed road bike equipped with a 14 speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain and good caliper brakes, rolling on 700c Kenda tyres designed for speed and efficiency.