MEP Library Lovers

The MEP Library Lovers Group brings together Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from around the EU, and across the political spectrum, who are passionate about libraries.

Every day, in countless communities across the European Union, over 100 million people visit over 65,000 public libraries every year, not to mention the thousands of academic and national libraries. As well as a vast array of books, computers and other resources, library users benefit from the expert teaching and guidance of librarians to help support their learning and open new worlds.

MEP Library Lovers sponsor Generation Code: Born at the Library, PL2030’s annual interactive digital exhibition from libraries at the European Parliament, and recommend the 60 Books for the Summer reading list.

How to become a MEP Library Lover

Join a community of EU policymakers committed to supporting and advocating for the future of public libraries. Find below the link to be part of our community.

The MEP library lovers that are part of this group believe that:

Libraries support literacy and lifelong learning.

Libraries build communities and support civic participation.

Libraries promote authors and reading for pleasure..

Libraries are the great equaliser.

Libraries protect our right to know.

Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle

Chair of the MEP Library Lovers

Renew Europe Group. Netherlands.

As a lifelong reader and former public library director, I believe that libraries are not just about books — they are the cornerstone of community life and engines of social cohesion, cultural preservation and democratic participation. Now, as an MEP for D66, I continue to fight for strong, well-funded libraries across Europe.

Nela Riehl

Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education

Volt, Germany.

I have always spent a lot of time in libraries: as a mother of two with my children, as a teacher with my students, and also by myself, only in company of good books. Libraries are fascinating places that spark imagination, shape values and make knowledge accessible – especially for those who might be less privileged. That is why as MEP for Volt and Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education, I will always support independent, inclusive, and sustainably funded libraries – spaces that are free from political bias, open to all, and strong enough to safeguard knowledge and critical thinking.