From June 9–13, 2025, representatives of Panevėžys County Gabrielė Petkevičaitė-Bitė Public Library visited public libraries in Porto, Braga, and Santa Maria da Feira as part of an Erasmus+ adult education project. The job-shadowing visit aimed to explore and adopt best practices in non-formal adult education.
Six libraries were visited, where staff, adult mentors, and project coordinators shared insights into their educational programmes, community engagement, sustainability initiatives, and inclusion efforts.
In Porto, colleagues at Biblioteca Municipal Almeida Garrett and Biblioteca Municipal Matosinhos Florbela Espanca showcased a wide range of activities – clubs, literacy workshops, debates, creative writing events, storytelling, and bibliotherapy. Their focus on local writers and poets was impressive, and visitors were introduced to special collections, including local history, art library materials, and resources for people with disabilities. Innovative tools like a book return cupboard and a user satisfaction device stood out.
At Lucio Craveiro da Silva Public Library in Braga, known for its motto “The whole world is in literature”, guests learned about its active volunteer base and partnerships with NGOs supporting socially excluded individuals. The library’s collaborations with schools, social services, and prisons, as well as creative initiatives like “Become a Librarian” day, showcased strong community integration.
Biblioteca Pública de Braga, part of the University of Minho and housed in a historic building from 1715, holds rare early printed books. Due to their age, most are for on-site reading only.
At the University of Porto’s Faculty of Arts library, visitors toured the American Corner Porto, supported by the US Embassy. Since 2007, this space has hosted speakers, screenings, and cultural activities promoting American life and ideas. With a radio station, TV studio, and creative zones, it’s a hub for innovation and learning.
Santa Maria da Feira Public Library amazed with its accessibility – open 7 days a week until 11:00 p.m. The library offers books, musical instruments, and more, while serving vibrant communities including Portuguese-Brazilian and Ukrainian groups. It runs events in its 192-seat cinema hall and displays local artists’ work. Its three bibliobuses deliver services to 45 stops, including factories and rural areas, even allowing utility bill payments on board.
The visit offered invaluable insights into how Portuguese libraries foster community, creativity, and learning. The knowledge gained will inspire the Panevėžys County library team to strengthen non-formal adult education and adopt inclusive, sustainable practices in Lithuania.
Solveiga Dagė
Panevėžys County Gabrielė Petkevičaitė-Bitė Public Library
