Libraries: home to knowledge, communities and engagement

A journey through libraries of the CHARM-EU Alliance

CHARM‑EU is a European University alliance founded in 2019 by the University of Barcelona (coordinator), Eötvös Loránd University Budapest, Trinity College Dublin, Utrecht University and the University of Montpellier. In 2022, the Alliance expanded with Åbo Akademi University, University of Würzburg and the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences; the University of Bergen joined in 2023. CHARM‑EU aims to design and create a new university model based on its core values – intercultural, inclusive, innovative, transparent, sustainable, socially responsible and student‑focused – and become a world example of good practice to increase the quality, international competitiveness and attractiveness of the European higher education landscape.

As trusted democratic spaces with more than 100 million visitors per year in Europe alone, libraries provide deep‑rooted connections to communities. University libraries have long been seen as institutions which mainly serve academia and research activities, provide an entryway to knowledge and preserve cultural heritage. Libraries in the 21st century have undergone a unique transformation; new visions and ideas are forming their general role in societies. Librarians across Europe are engaged in discussion on how their institutions can appeal to younger and culturally more diverse users – creating spaces where people can come together to meet and talk – a gateway to knowledge and learning not solely based on books.

CHARM‑EU is strongly committed to the power of diversity and inclusivity, aiming to enrich learning experiences and knowledge‑creation processes, and foster an open, welcoming and safe atmosphere. These values are promoted by actions such as inclusive design, responsiveness to needs, international mobility and transdisciplinary collaboration – as well as by this unique exhibition.

The exhibition takes the viewer on a virtual tour of the CHARM‑EU partner libraries. It showcases 31 photographs around four main themes: Architecture & Heritage, Community, Library in Action and Libraries & Art. In the pictures, the rich cultural and social life of university libraries are depicted as well as their inspiring engagement activities and up‑to‑date innovations towards preservation and digitalization processes.

Libraries provide a safe space and also serve as hubs for connecting people and sharing joy among the bookshelves – be it anywhere across Europe.

The exhibition celebrates the fruitful collaboration within the CHARM‑EU Alliance which now extends to the partner universities’ libraries:

Åbo Akademi University Library
ELTE University Library and Archives
Hochschule Ruhr West, Library
University Library Würzburg
Library of Trinity College Dublin
Learning and Research Resources Centre (CRAI), Universitat de Barcelona
University of Bergen, Library
Office of Library Services – University of Montpellier
Utrecht University Library

Special thanks to all colleagues across the CHARM‑EU partner universities for their contribution and support.

Concept: Szilvia Szöllősi & Zsuzsanna Bódai, ELTE University Strategy Office
Graphic design: Bettina Sinkó, ELTE University Library and Archives
2024