Virovitica (Croatia) welcomes librarians from around the world for an International Conference and Festival on Mobile Libraries

Our colleagues from the Virovitica Public Library shared with us two important library-related events that took place in their city last month.

On June 5–6, 2025, the city of Virovitica hosted the 17th Croatian Conference on Mobile Libraries and the 11th Bookmobile Festival under the theme “Mobile Libraries of the Future – An Open Path to Users.” Organized by the Commission for Mobile Libraries and the Virovitica Public Library, the event welcomed over 100 librarians from Croatia, Spain, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, Estonia, and the United States. This marked the largest and most significant library event ever held in Virovitica.

The conference aimed to promote the role of bookmobiles in providing equitable access to library services, fostering reading habits, and supporting lifelong learning—especially in remote or underserved communities. Virovitica was selected as host following the recent launch of its bookmobile service in 2023. Robert Fritz, Director of the Virovitica Public Library, emphasized the event’s significance for the city and the future of mobile libraries in Croatia.

Croatia’s Minister of Culture and Media, Nina Obuljen Koržinek, officially opened the event and highlighted major investments in library infrastructure, including a national development plan for mobile libraries and the acquisition of new bookmobiles funded through national and EU sources.

Keynote speakers included international experts who presented best practices and inspiring stories. Cathy Zimmerman (USA), Annika Marsh (Estonia), and Lyusyena Shum (Ukraine) offered insights into mobile library work across diverse cultural and political contexts. Numerous other professionals from Croatia and Europe shared innovative programs and strategies for future development.

The conference also honored long-serving library staff, such as Boris Pleić for 25 years of service and Dražena Rajsz for 10. Special recognition was given to bookmobile drivers, who play a crucial role in delivering services and fostering community connections.

A bookmobile exhibition featuring 17 Croatian and international vehicles, as well as a poster competition, added to the event’s appeal. The winning poster was titled “Babies in the Bookmobile.”

The conference concluded by reaffirming that users are at the heart of all mobile library efforts. With growing public interest, increased visibility, and institutional support, mobile libraries in Croatia are entering a promising new era of expansion and innovation.

If you’re interested in more details, you can check out this document. To get a feel for the atmosphere at the festival and conference, watch this video.