Ljubljana city library (LCL) implements group mobilities within the framework of Erasmus+ accreditation for adult education, opening doors for adult learners and staff to the European space of learning, culture, and intercultural connection.
Group mobility for adult learners represents an opportunity for international exchange, where participants strengthen key competences of the European framework for lifelong learning through cultural, linguistic, and educational content. LCL focuses primarily on multilingualism, literacy, and cultural awareness and expression – competences that are essential for librarians and adult users.
Ljubljana city library approaches mobilities strategically, responsibly, and inclusively. The program is prepared by the host institution together with the Centre for international cooperation and accompanying staff, always taking into account the needs and wishes of participants. Mobility is teamwork – participants actively contribute to the preparation of content, presentations, and cultural programs, which means that mobilities are not a one-way “guided trip” but a co-creation of an intercultural experience.
An important part of LCL’s mission is the inclusion of people with fewer opportunities – older adults, individuals with lower socio-economic status, people with less experience in international settings. For many participants, mobility is a breakthrough experience that allows them to overcome fear of traveling or foreign languages, gain new social contacts, strengthen self-confidence, and realize that their life experiences are valuable. LCL helps participants overcome practical obstacles, and when necessary, provides basic equipment such as suitcases from Erasmus+ funds.
In 2024–2025, LCL organized seven group mobilities where reading groups and workshop participants travelled to Oslo to explore Norwegian literature and libraries, to Montélimar to engage with French culture and local readers, to Valencia for Spanish literary events and cultural exchange, to Dubrovnik to learn about sustainable practices and traditional crafts, to Donja Stubica where seniors discovered Kajkavian heritage, to Alicante and Madrid to develop language and digital skills while exploring Mediterranean lifestyle, and to Helsinki to visit famous Finnish libraries and participate in creative workshops with local reading clubs.
Librarians who participated as group leaders report that mobility strengthens group cohesion and creates lasting friendships. Preparations are demanding, as all details must be planned, health and individual needs must be considered, and one must be prepared for unpredictable situations.
Participants describe their experiences as inspiring and important. We often hear: “I didn’t think I would still be traveling at this age,” “It was the first time I flew on a plane – and survived!” or “This was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.”
Mobilities have brought LCL greater motivation for international cooperation, new partnerships, and increased recognition in the European space. This is the essence of lifelong learning in practice.
Photos by Ana Berce, Silvija Štraus & Špela Plestenjak, text by Mateja Vodiškar
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