Cycling for libraries is an independent international bicycle tour “unconference” for librarians and library lovers.

Cycling for libraries supports at its core international grassroots networking, the mental and physical well-being of library professionals, and the crucial role of libraries for society and intellectual and scientific education in general.

Being Bicycle based, Cycling For Libraries naturally supports ecological values and an environmentally friendly way of life.

Many key values are inherited from librarianship. Thise of liberalism, openness, lifelong learning, access to information and innovativeness.

Of course librarianship, like the bicycle, is also by it’s very nature humanist, internationalist, cross-boundary and hands-on.

Every year in several countries around the world library professionals gather together and cycle considerable distances stopping at libraries along the way on a cycling conference that lasts anywhere from a few days to a week.

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 electric Boardman ADV 8.9E, which are currently very popular, a road bike which is more nimble but perhaps a little less comfortable over longer distances, a Boardman 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.

In May 20102, a group of Finnish librarians launched the idea of organizing an alternative bicycle conference, known as an ‘unconference’ in order to network with with colleagues from all over Europe and collectively discuss the issues and challenges that libraries face.

Joined by other librarians of different nationalities, they decided to cycle the 70 km from Borås to Gothenburg in Sweden to attend the 76th conference of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions which was taking place there in the summer of 2010.

Based on their success, the organizers of this unconference by bike planned the first official edition of Cycling for libraries between Copenhagen and Berlin in the Summer of 2011, riding an adventurous 650 km in the process.

The following year in Summer 2012, a hundred participants met to cycle 600 km from Vilnius to Tallinn and in Summer 2013, a meeting of librarians and bibliophiles departed from Amsterdam to cycle to Brussels in 9 days.

As a result of these different cycling librarian get togethers, the International Association for Library Advocacy (IALA) was founded at the start of 2014 with the mission to organize further editions of Cycling for Libraries.

At the 80th IFLA Congress in Lyon in 2014, a French speaking branch of Cycling for Libraries was formed known as Cyclo-biblio. Later in the Summer nearly a hundred international librarians cycled from the coast in Montpellier to Lyon to promote libraries and their services in the areas they cycled through.

How it works

Cycling for libraries is an opportunity to meet colleagues from all over Europe to exchange ideas and discuss the promotion of libraries. It is also an opportunity for participants to develop their professional network and to strengthen their commitment as library advocates.

Equally important, Cycling for Libraries allows participants to visit local authority libraries, documentation centres and university libraries in the areas they cycle through, gaining more experience of different library environments.

These visits are done at the genial pace of a bicycle, which gives participants the time to chat with passers by and any other cyclists they may meet along the way.

With participants being both novice and experienced cyclists, each route is adapted and itineraries planned in conjunction with national cycling associations and in particular with the French association for the development of cycle routes and greenways for France.

You may have heard of the term “velorution” and in this case it can be applied to libraries as well – while a velorution is the movement aiming to promote the use of the bicycle as a mode of transportation, Cyclo-biblio takes this even further by using the bicycle as a mode of transportation to promote libraries and show how they are still revolutionary to societies today.

Previous Editions

DateDistanceRouteTheme
27 May – 7 June 2011650 kmCopenhagen – BerlinShifting traditions
28 July – 7 August 2012600 kmVilnius – TallinnRe-positioning libraries
18 – 26 June 2013220 kmAmsterdam – BrusselsInformation society skills and training / Rights
6 – 14 August 2014460 kmMontpellier – LyonLibraries “outside the walls
6 – 10 June 2015215 kmBasel – Strasbourg Libraries and the social link
1 – 10 September 2015675 kmOslo – Aarhus Makerspaces / New buildings / New Challenges, new skills and competences
1 – 7 June 2016375 kmToulouse – BordeauxTowards participatory libraries!
5 – 11 August 2016385 kmWelland – OntarioMulticulturalism
17 – 20 May 2017150 kmÖresund tourInformation specialists
18 – 24 June 2017300 kmLe LémanFrancophonie and cooperation
28 August – 1 September 2017350 kmBrașov – SibiuCicloBiblio in Romania
10 – 13 September 2017300 kmTrois-Ponts – GenkCycling and learning / Collaboration
June 2 – 7, 2018350 kmAngers – La RochelleWhat is a library for?
31 May – 6 June 2019350 kmLe Havre – ParisCyclo Biblio Haar
3 June – 8 June 2023Lille – DunkirkLa Flandrienne

Worldwide Movement

If you want to create your own Cycling for Libraries ride to advocate for libraries and the benefits they bring to our communities, reach out on social media using the hashtag #cyclingforlibraries to discover if any colleagues have already put plans into motion in your area, or to find like-minded individual with which to collaborate on your own adventure.

They said about libraries…

An original idea. That can’t be too hard. The library must be full of them.”

STEPHEN FRY, ENGLISH ACTOR

“There is not such a cradle of democracy on earth as the Free Public Library, this republic of letters, where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives the slightest consideration.”

ANDREW CARNEGIE, AMERICAN INDUSTRIALIST

“I had no books at home. I started to frequent a public library in Lisbon. It was there, with no help except curiosity and the will to learn, that my taste for reading developed and was refined.”

JOSE SARAMAGO, PORTUGUESE NOVELIST

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.