Libraries are often unexpectedly good examples of accessibility. Because they are public buildings that need to be used by everyone, young and old, most Belgian libraries have been thoroughly refurbished or rebuilt over recent decades with attention to wheelchair accessibility. Bookshops often follow suit and are an underrated rest stop during a day out. In this guide we cover the loveliest accessible libraries and bookshops in Belgium.
Permeke Library Antwerp: an urban flagship
The Permeke Library Antwerp is a contemporary architectural gem on De Coninckplein. The building is fully step-free, with lifts connecting all four floors, automatic doors and adapted toilets on every floor. The reading areas are spacious, with adapted workstations for wheelchair users, lowered tables and good lighting. There is also a quiet workspace that is perfect for anyone who likes a silent place to study.
Utopia Library Aalst: an award-winner for accessibility
The Utopia Library Aalst has won several architectural prizes since it opened and is often cited as a showcase of inclusive design. The combination of the historic monastery with a contemporary extension produced a building in which old and new flow seamlessly together, and all spaces are step-free. An accessible lift takes you up to the upper reading floors, and the auditorium hall has fixed wheelchair places.
City Library De Biekorf Bruges: medieval and modern
The Bruges City Library De Biekorf shows that even in a historic town like Bruges, modern accessibility is possible. Following a thorough renovation the library was made fully step-free, with lifts, wide corridors and adapted reading areas. The children's section on the ground floor is particularly suitable for families with children.
Kris Lambert City Library Ostend: sea views and silence
The Kris Lambert City Library Ostend has a unique location right by the sea. The contemporary building was designed with accessibility at its heart: a lift to all floors, wide corridors, adapted workstations and toilets, and a reading area with views of the sea. A wheelchair-friendly break with a book and a view is possible here.
Kortrijk City Library: large and modern
The Kortrijk City Library is one of the largest contemporary library buildings in West Flanders. Fully step-free, with adapted toilets, reading areas on different levels reached by lift, and an extensive selection of books in four national languages. The adjoining cafeteria is also step-free.
Heritage Museum Eeklo: a library-and-museum combination
At the Heritage Museum Eeklo you find not only the history of the Meetjesland but also a small reference library for those wanting to read more about the region. Fully step-free thanks to a spacious lift.
Redu: the book village of the Ardennes
Redu Village du Livre is a unique concept: a whole village devoted to books, with more than twenty bookshops spread across the houses of the village. Not all bookshops are equally accessible because they occupy historic homes, but several recently renovated shops have step-free entrances. The Redu tourist office can give you a list of accessible shops and offers an adapted guided tour on request.
Practical tips
- Reserve materials in advance. Many libraries hold large-format material or special books that can be made available on request. Call or email ahead if you are looking for something specific.
- Ask about read-aloud sessions. Most libraries regularly organise read-aloud sessions, both for children and for seniors. These are often held in accessible rooms.
- Combine with a museum visit. Many libraries lie close to museums, which makes a calm indoor day possible for less mobile visitors.
- Membership is free at many libraries. Local libraries are often free for residents of the municipality and a modest fee for others.
Combination tip: Aalst as a library-and-cafe day
For a relaxed wheelchair-friendly day, combine the Utopia Library Aalst with lunch at Brasserie Den Bietekwiet Aalst on the Markt. A walk in Stadspark Aalst rounds off the day.