Literary travel in Copenhagen
Jump on the rising literary travel trend and explore the city’s libraries and bookshops.
At this time of year, the rising literary travel trend pairs extremely well with Copenhagen’s cosy appeal, giving visitors a chance to embrace and experience its famous hygge. There are over 50 bookshops in the city, ranging from antique and second hand stores to specialist manga and comic book shops, design book shops and wine and book shops. New imprints are emerging from the city’s established publishers, along with a wave of indie publishers, making the city’s literary scene dynamic and diverting.
The Black DiamondPhoto:Lukas Bukoven
The city’s beautiful libraries offer so much more than shelves of books: at The Black Diamond, you can take a guided tour to go behind the scenes of the historic and architecturally distinct library, visit photo exhibitions, drink coffee in its café and buy beautiful notebooks in its shop. Discover Hans Christian Andersen’s diary in its permanent exhibition, Treasures, where you’ll find unique insights into the life of Copenhagen’s beloved poet. Alongside his diary are letters from Søren Kierkegaard and manuscripts from Karen Blixen, all preserved in the library’s archives.
On Fiolstræde, Copenhagen University has just opened its library to the public. The library itself dates to 1482, while this building has been in operation since 1861. It’s a beautiful building with a lavishly-decorated Italian-inspired ceiling and a small shop selling University of Copenhagen items. Nearby Brøg Litteraturbar sell international and Danish books. A couple of streets away, you’ll find Copenhagen’s main lending library, attached to a small café, where you can browse books and magazines over a cup of coffee.
Designmuseum Danmark has the largest design library in the Nordics with an important collection focusing on design and crafts. Free and open to the public, it is a museum and research library aiming to inspire development in design and research in design and art history. Its archives include Danish and international books, periodicals and other printed materials, as well as product catalogues, brochures, exhibition and auction catalogues, photos, carpet and textile sample books.
Learn more about humanity and yourself by borrowing a book at The Human Library. This unique and innovative concept is all about challenging stigma by creating a safe space for dialogue and originated in Copenhagen. It works by lending out books – people – to talk about their life experiences and is now operational in over 85 countries. Events take place in their building in Nørrebro as well as in locations all over the world.
Libraries in Copenhagen
The Black Diamond
The Black Diamond in Copenhagen is one of the harbourfront’s key modern architecture attractions, and is an extension to the Royal Library, with a bookshop, restaurant, café and concert hall inside it. Designed by architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen, the building was finished in 1999 and is nicknamed 'the Black Diamond' for its shiny irregular facets on the outside that mirror the sea and sky. Inside the building, ancient and modern come together in a unique, light-filled way.
The University Library
The University Library in Copenhagen’s Inner City is an architectural gem that captivates visitors with its historic charm and intellectual ambiance. Established in the 19th century, this iconic building combines elegant neoclassical architecture with a stunning, high-ceilinged reading hall that invites visitors to study or simply soak in the scholarly atmosphere. Unique among libraries, its grand interior features beautifully crafted woodwork and towering bookshelves, creating a timeless setting for exploration. The library’s serene surroundings and rich history make it a must-visit for international guests, offering a glimpse into Denmark’s academic heritage in the heart of Copenhagen’s old city.
Copenhagen's Main Library
Copenhagen's Main Library is a unique cultural hub, located in the historic medieval city center and spread across four inspiring floors. Offering a warm welcome to international visitors, the library houses an extensive collection of books, films, and magazines in various languages, ideal for curious minds from around the world. Families will enjoy the vibrant children’s section with storytelling sessions, play areas, and educational activities, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. On the ground floor, Democratic Coffee serves some of the best pastries and coffee in town, creating a cozy spot to relax while exploring Copenhagen’s literary and cultural offerings.
Designmuseum Denmark
Located within Design Museum Denmark, a premier institution dedicated to Danish and international design, the library is a remarkable resource and the largest in the Nordic region dedicated to design and crafts. Open to the public and free of charge, this library serves as both a museum and a research library. It offers a vast collection of materials on design, craftsmanship, and art history, making it a unique destination for anyone interested in design. The library not only preserves historical works but also inspires innovation, offering a rich source of knowledge for designers, students, and researchers alike.
The Human Library
The Human Library on Nørrebro in Copenhagen offers a truly unique experience where visitors “borrow” people instead of books. This innovative library allows guests to engage in open conversations with “human books”—individuals who have volunteered to share their personal stories. Visitors can meet people from diverse backgrounds, including refugees, former gang members, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with unique life experiences. The aim is to challenge stereotypes and foster understanding through dialogue. The Human Library provides an extraordinary opportunity for international visitors to connect, learn, and gain new perspectives, making it a powerful place for cultural exchange.
Karen Blixen Museum
In Rungsted, you will find the historic house Rungstedlund, the home of renowned author Karen Blixen. Now a museum, bird sanctuary, and café, it invites guests to explore Blixen’s original rooms, filled with her creative spirit. The museum showcases her literary contributions along with interior aesthetics of fresh flower arrangements, paintings, and design. A visit offers profound insights into her life, philosophy, and celebrated works like “Out of Africa” and “Seven Gothic Tales.” Rungstedlund is a gateway to understanding one of Denmark’s most illustrious writers.
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