READING IN VILLACH: INSIDER TIPS FOR BOOKWORMS

Whether its cozy bookstores, the extensive Alpen-Adria Mediathek, or through creative book-swapping initiatives – Villach offers plenty of options to delight literature lovers. This post highlights the best reading hotspots and opportunities for book enthusiasts in this charming city by the Drau River.

ALPEN-ADRIA MEDIATHEK: VARIETY UNDER ONE ROOF

At the heart of Villach lies the Alpen-Adria Mediathek, a true treasure trove for literature and media enthusiasts. This public library, run by the Workers’ Chamber of Carinthia (“Arbeiterkammer” or short: AK), offers not just books and magazines but also games, movies, and multimedia materials in various languages, all available for loan for several weeks. Its regular events, such as picture book performances and the “Lesestadt” Children’s Literature Festival held since 2018, are especially popular.

With the AK library card, which costs a one-time fee of €10, you can access both the Klagenfurt and Villach libraries without limits. The card is free for children, teenagers under 18, students, and apprentices. Registration is possible on-site or online.

The AK libraries have recently expanded their digital offerings with Polylino, a multilingual digital picture and children’s book service. Families can explore over 1,500 books in more than 40 text and 70 audio languages – a fantastic resource for multilingual households.

LOCAL BOOKSTORES: SOMETHING FOR EVERY TASTE

Villach boasts a range of bookstores offering bestsellers, works by local authors, and unique gift ideas. Thalia, located in the Atrio shopping center and on Villach’s main square, offers an extensive selection of books, stationery, and gifts. Other popular spots include the Morawa bookstore on 8.-Mai-Platz and the Libro stationery store on Bruno-Kreisky-Straße.

SECONDHAND BOOKS: SUSTAINABLE AND AFFORDABLE

Secondhand books are easy to find in Villach, offering a sustainable and budget-friendly way to expand your collection. Together City, the Carla Caritas Shop, and various flea markets are great places to find affordable used books. There’s even a small secondhand bookshop at the entrance of Villach’s LKH Hospital, offering books at attractive prices. For more details about secondhand shopping in Villach, interested readers can find information here. If you prefer browsing online or are looking for something specific, platforms like Rebuy, Vinted, or Willhaben may have just what you’re looking for.

BOOK SWAPPING: SHARE AND DISCOVER NEW STORIES

SWIRCLE: THE TRAVELING CHILDREN’S LIBRARY

Villach’s EduTech start-up Swircle has made it its mission to provide families with an affordable, convenient, and sustainable way to access diverse and foreign-language children’s literature. This innovative project operates as a book-swapping circle (Swircle = swap & circle), allowing families to easily share and exchange foreign-language children’s books within their community. Every four to six weeks, families receive a Swircle box containing up to 20 children’s books. They can keep the books they wish to read and send back the others. You can learn more about how it works in this video:

PUBLIC BOOK BOXES: FREE READING MATERIAL IN VILLACH

For a more sustainable way to discover new reading material without spending money, Villach offers numerous book boxes scattered around the city. These boxes invite people to place books they’ve read inside and take new ones in exchange.

You can find these book boxes at the following locations:

• Atrio shopping center: On the first floor, between the Red Level hair salon and the eyes+more optician.

• Willroiderstraße 9: In front of the Freiraum E.R.D.E., part of the “Verantwortung Erde” movement.

Whether you’re into traditional books, digital options, or creative swapping initiatives, Villach has plenty of opportunities to embrace the joy of reading. Many schools and the Carinthia University of Applied Sciences also have their own libraries, though they’re usually reserved for students and faculty. However, external individuals – such as students working on pre-scientific projects – may be able to request special access to the university library in Villach.

Take advantage of Villach’s diverse reading offerings, grab a book, and dive into fascinating new worlds!