The Healing Library

The Healing Library

An insight into how German libraries are becoming spaces of well-being, dialogue, and belonging — open to all, free of charge, and vital to community life.

Well-being

Dialogue

Belonging

Community

Participation

Why the Healing Library Matters in Germany

A Growing Challenge

Across Germany, millions of people experience loneliness — regardless of age, background, or circumstance. In 2023, the German government published its first national strategy against loneliness.

Libraries as the Answer

Libraries are uniquely positioned as low-threshold places of encounter — no fees, no barriers, no prerequisites. They offer space to connect, start conversations, and gently overcome social isolation, making the Healing Library concept more relevant than ever.

Preventing Loneliness: Open Society Day

JUNE 20, 2026

"Tables and Chairs Outside"

Since 2017, the Open Society Initiative has hosted an annual day of meeting, talking, and connecting in public space. Libraries participate as trusted venues for information, free speech, and open exchange.

Democracy

Strengthens participation and civic dialogue

Inclusion

Invites citizens, civil society, and institutions alike

Best Practice Examples I

BREMEN & REGENSBURG

Bremen — Games Time

A free, open activity for anyone aged 14+ who enjoys board games, card games, or quizzes. The Central Library becomes a lively space for play, laughter, and spontaneous connection.

Regensburg — Exercise for Seniors

A health-focused program where a specialist shares practical tips and gentle exercises tailored to older adults — supporting long-term well-being and independence in later life.

Best Practice Examples II

HEIDELBERG

🐕 The Reading Dog is Coming

Children read aloud to trained, calm dogs — building reading confidence, reducing anxiety, and discovering the joy of stories in a gentle, pressure-free setting.

📖 Shared Reading

Participants read together and listen to one another. Literature and poetry create a safe, inclusive space that bridges social, cultural, and generational divides.

🤫 Quiet Reading Community

A relaxed reading space for anyone who wants to read at their own pace. Free admission, no registration — just come and read.

Best Practice Examples III

DRESDEN & FREIBURG

Dresden — Crochet & Knitting Workshop

Beginners and experienced crafters meet regularly in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere — creating together and building lasting social bonds.

Dresden — Book Courier

Trained volunteers deliver library materials directly to people who cannot visit in person due to age, illness, or disability — bringing the library to them.

Freiburg — Democracy Tuesday

A regular "Speak & Listen" forum offering a safe space for civic dialogue on current social and political topics — rooted in mutual respect and active participation.

Best Practice Examples IV

BERLIN (1)

Therapeutic Singing Workshop

Open to everyone — no experience needed. Group singing relaxes, energizes, and lifts the spirit, supporting body, mind, and soul in equal measure.

Clean Connection

A peer support group for people affected by substance use, particularly in nightlife contexts. Focused on relapse prevention, mental stability, and building sober routines in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

Best Practice Examples V

BERLIN (2)

Nonviolent Communication for Fathers

A program for men who play a meaningful role in a child's life. Combining theory and lived practice of Nonviolent Communication, it provides an open, respectful space for reflection and growth.

Digital Support Made Simple

Trained digital guides help people navigate devices, online bookings, and digital services. The support is free, personal, and available without appointment or library card — removing every barrier to access.

What These Examples Show

German libraries already act as healing spaces. Together, these initiatives demonstrate that libraries are far more than book repositories.

Social Connection

Inclusive Participation

Emotional Support

Intergenerational Exchange

Democratic Dialogue

Digital Inclusion

What It Takes: Success Factors

Building a healing library is possible — but it requires intentional effort and the right foundations.

Resources & Tools

Financial, material, and human support to bring programs to life

Collaboration

Partnerships with community organizations, health services, and civic groups

Participation

Involving all voices — staff, visitors, and the wider community

Patience

Allowing time for trust, routines, and initiatives to take root

Creativity & Imagination

Bringing bold new ideas to meet community needs in unexpected ways

Thank you for your attention

Ulrike Kraß

Hannah Neumann