This page contains a list of countries, outside of the U.S.A. and Canada, in which public libraries offer programs and services that support physical activity and movement. Please add to this list by using the form at the bottom of this page.

Australia – The City of West Torrens checks out sporting equipment at the public library, including soccer balls, basketballs, tennis racquets and balls, cricket sets, hand weights, and an aerobic step.

Brazil – The Biblioteca do Parque Villa-Lobos offers free Yoga classes.

China – The Sports Branch of the Hangzhou Public Library holds sports classes and promotes reading related to sports and physical activity.

Costa Rica – Article mentions the rise of zumba classes and yoga classes throughout public libraries in Costa Rica.

Denmark – The Dokk1 or Dokken (a public library and culture center in a single building) in Aarhus, Denmark, holds “digital detox” programs that promote gentle physical activities in the library.

Estonia – The Tallinn Central Library checks out sports equipment.

Finland – Many libraries check out sports equipment.

Kenya – Kenya National Library Service Nakuru Branch Fitness Club takes place every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 4:30pm-5:30pm.

Malaysia – The Selangor Public Library Corporation has a library gymnasium as part of its “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” initiative.

Namibia – The Oshana Regional Library hosts yoga sessions for children at the library. The Outapi Library has a “Library Fitness Club.”

Portugal – The library in Entroncamento offers youth yoga at the library.

Romania – The Pietrari Local Public Library hosts a variety of fitness programs.

Russia – “Every  Wednesday is a sports day in Chelyabinsk Regional Library for Young Adults.” See other examples of Russian public libraries promoting physical activity.

Singapore – Public libraries host exercise programs, especially for older adults.

United Kingdom – Public libraries offer health and wellness programs for older adults that include exercise.

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