On Tuesday evening, November 25, computers used for customer service were stolen from Orimattila Library. The theft was discovered the following morning, and the computers were wiped remotely.
Based on preliminary investigations, the shared customer database of the Lastu libraries has not been compromised, and no data breaches have occurred. We have also taken all necessary measures to ensure that the stolen computers will not have access to the database in the future.
The City of Lahti has fulfilled the data controller’s statutory obligations by reporting the matter to the Data Protection Ombudsman's Office.
If you have concerns about this incident or the use of your personal data in the library system, you can contact your local library if needed.
There has been significant disruptive behavior and vandalism at Nastola Library this autumn. Please remember the rules that help ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Nastola Library has experienced considerable disruptive behavior and vandalism during the autumn. In addition to self-service hours, staff have had to intervene daily during service hours. Other customers have also provided feedback about the disturbances.
The library is a shared living room for everyone, and it should remain a pleasant space for all. The library is a safe place for both customers and staff. Everyone is responsible for helping maintain the safety of this shared space.
Children and young people have found their way to Nastola Library, which is great, but behavior must also respect other customers. Discuss at home how to behave in the library so that visits are pleasant for everyone.
If you notice disruptive behavior or misuse in the library, we encourage you to address the situation kindly by guiding. If this is not enough, self-service libraries have alarm buttons to call security. In case of suspected crime, always call the police.
To use the self-service library, you must log in with your own library card and PIN code. Do not let other people in with the same door opening, except for your own family members. Anyone under 15 needs guardian permission to use self-service hours. The guardian is responsible for their child’s actions and for anyone else the child may let in during self-service time.
Library staff are happy to help with self-service use.
You are warmly welcome to the library!
Additional information
Lahti City Library
Pirita Rautavuo Service Manager, Local Library Services pirita.rautavuo@lahti.fi +358 44 483 1513
Hanna Hölttä Librarian hanna.holtta@lahti.fi +358 44 79 09 335
Lahti City Library has an open survey related to the Lastu Libraries Adult Reading Diploma. Everyone of all ages is warmly invited to participate.
Do you have book suggestions for the 2026 Reading Diploma? Tell us!
Suggest a book for a new theme category in next year’s Reading Diploma. The Customer Choices category will include ten works selected from customer recommendations. The genre can be anything—from fiction to non-fiction, comics to poetry.
You can also comment on and upvote other suggestions.
All participants who submit a suggestion will be entered into a draw for book prizes.
What is the Adult Reading Diploma?
The Lastu Libraries Adult Reading Diploma is completed by reading one book from at least ten different theme categories. The goal of the Reading Diploma is to inspire reading. There is a Facebook group for the Reading Diploma where reading experiences are shared.
The survey is conducted on the OmaLahti.fi website, which is Lahti City’s platform for participation and influence, where you can share your opinions on current issues concerning Lahti. You need to register and log in to the site.
* Library staff will select suitable works from the suggestions for next year’s Reading Diploma while preparing it. Please note that not every suggested book will automatically be included in next year’s Reading Diploma.
More information:
Lahti City Library Library Service Coordinator, Communications, Nora Nordman Tel. 044 416 4103, nora.nordman@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library invites to a coffee event and a discussion about library memories and the significance of the library at Laune Library. Laune Library will continue serving customers until December 31, 2025.
In autumn 2024, the Wellbeing and Leisure Committee unanimously decided to close Laune Library as of January 1, 2026.
To thank its customers, Lahti City Library will organize a special program at Laune Library on November 13. The event will include conversations and encounters over coffee and shared library memories.
Warm Thank You Coffee Throughout the Day
Coffee will be served at Laune Library from 1 PM to 7 PM as a token of appreciation for the years spent together. Lahti Library Services Director Salla Tammi and Service Manager for Local Libraries Pirita Rautavuo will be present to greet visitors.
Guests are welcome to leave their library memories and greetings on the Library Memories Wall throughout the day for everyone to enjoy.
The program also includes presentations of library services, book recommendations, and information about other libraries in Lahti where customers can continue their library journey next year.
Library Memories from Laune – November 13 at 5 PM
You are warmly invited to share your memories of Laune Library over the years and to join a collective discussion.
The conversation will also explore the meaning of a local library.
Lahti City Library invites both residents and decision-makers to participate.
The discussion will follow the spirit of the Erätauko method – listening respectfully and sharing openly. The discussion will be facilitated by librarian Johanna Nurminen.
All events are open to everyone. Note that contrary to previous information, no pre-registration is required.
Welcome!
More information:
Lahti City Library
Pirita Rautavuo Service Manager, Local Library Services pirita.rautavuo@lahti.fi +358 44 483 1513
Salla Tammi Library Services Director salla.tammi@lahti.fi +358 50 559 4098
The library staff's annual development day will be held on October 31. On this day, all libraries will be closed, and the mobile library service will not operate.
The main library will also be closed on Saturday, November 1, due to All Saints' Day.
Self-service libraries will be open as usual in Ahtiala, Jalkaranta, Liipola, Kärpänen, Mukkula, Nastola, and Renkomäki, where you can use the services independently as usual.
Self-service access is available as usual. Liipola Library in the picture. Photo: Johanna Kalliomaa / City of Lahti
The evening routes of the mobile library will temporarily be operated using a van, following the regular schedule. Book bags will be delivered to schools and kindergartens based on orders, but the routes themselves will not be driven. Due to operational issues with the mobile library, an independent inspection has been conducted. The inspection revealed repair needs that must be addressed by the vehicle supplier.
The electric mobile library Saaga was introduced in autumn 2024. Since its launch, it has experienced technical problems, particularly with engine performance. The vehicle has been out of service multiple times. These issues have not been resolved, and no agreement has been reached with the supplier.
An independent inspector has assessed the mobile library. The conclusion was that the vehicle does not meet the buyer’s expectations in all respects.
The matter is still under review. Cooperation with the supplier continues, and the company has provided proposals for repairs upon request. The next step is to evaluate the feasibility of these proposals, possibly with an expert, and decide on further actions. If no agreement is reached on the repairs, legal action may be considered, such as assessing the conditions for canceling the purchase.
Evening Routes Operated by Van for Now
Evening routes will continue with a van according to the normal schedule. Reserved materials will be delivered to customers, and a small selection of loanable items will be available, including new adult releases and materials for children and youth. Book bags will be delivered to schools and kindergartens upon request.
Reservations for the mobile library can be made via the Lastu online library. Library staff can assist with making reservations if needed. Reading tips for reservable materials are also available through the Lastu-vinkkaajat service.
Additional Information:
Lahti City Library
Salla Tammi Director of Library Services salla.tammi@lahti.fi Tel. 050 559 4098
Johanna Mattila Service Manager, Procurement and Logistics Services johanna.mattila@lahti.fi Tel. 044 416 3228
Laune Library will serve customers until 31 December 2025. For practical service matters, please follow these instructions.
You can place reservations to Laune Library until 11 December. The last day to pick up reserved items from Laune Library is 19 December. After that, please choose another library as the pickup location for your reservations.
If a reserved item does not arrive at Laune in time, its pickup location will automatically be changed to Renkomäki Library. We recommend that customers update their pickup location themselves in the Lastu online library to the library they plan to use in the future. Library staff will assist if needed.
Part of Laune Library’s collection will be transferred to other libraries during January.
In southern Lahti, customers of Laune Library will be served by Renkomäki Library, Liipola Library, and the mobile library. In southwestern Lahti, Kärpänen Library will serve customers. The main library and other local libraries in Lahti – Ahtiala, Jalkaranta, Mukkula, and Nastola – are also available.
Renkomäki Library will host Uusien illat (Newcomers’ Evenings) event on 21 October and 16 December from 18:00 to 19:00. Customers transitioning from Laune are invited to learn about the services the library offers today and what can be done in a self-service library.
Laune Library will host a Kirjastomuistoja Launeelta (Library Memories from Laune) evening on 13 November, where memories from Laune Library over the years will be shared and the importance of a local library will be discussed together.
In autumn 2024, the Wellbeing and Leisure Committee unanimously decided to close Laune Library as of 1 January 2026.
Additional information
Lahti City Library Pirita Rautavuo Service Manager, Local Library Services pirita.rautavuo@lahti.fi Tel. 044 483 1513
Laune Library Aurakatu 11 15610 Lahti
Renkomäki Library Orimattilankatu 103 15680 Lahti
Liipola Library Ostoskatu 3 15500 Lahti
Kärpänen Library Kasakkamäentie 16 15800 Lahti
All Lahti libraries and more information: lastu.finna.fi
Mobile Library Service Concept – Temporary Library Van Delivers Materials to Daycares, Schools, and Other Customers Starting September 11
Starting Thursday, September 11, 2025, Lahti City Library will temporarily replace its mobile library bus with a van to serve school and daycare routes as well as evening routes. Evening routes will follow the published schedule. Book bags will be delivered to schools and daycares as needed, but not according to the route schedule. On evening routes, reserved materials will be delivered to customers. Additionally, a small selection of loanable materials will be available, including new adult titles and materials for children and youth.
Reservations for mobile library materials can be made via the Lastu online library. Library staff can assist with making reservations if needed. Reading recommendations for reservable materials can also be requested through the Lastu-vinkkaajat service.
Lahti’s mobile library bus Saaga is currently out of service due to a technical fault. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Follow updates at lastu.finna.fi.
Additional information:
Johanna Mattila Service Manager, Acquisition and Logistics Services Lahti City Library Tel. +358 44 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
!Library van with side door open
The library van temporarily replaces the mobile library bus starting September 11, 2025.
The collaboration between the City Library and Malva, which began last autumn, continues. This fall, inspired by the atmosphere of Malva’s Transformations exhibition, at Lahti Main Library you can write and find inspiration in the themes of transformation.
Lahti Main Library Book Exhibition: Transformations
September 1–21, 2025 | Lahti Main Library, 1st floor The display features both fiction and non-fiction books that explore themes from Malva’s Transformations exhibition, such as corporeality and the human relationship with nature. Also included are works on contemporary art. All materials are available for loan.
Transfomations - Writing Workshop
Tuesday, September 30 at 17:30 | Lahti Main Library, Multipurpose Room, 2nd floor The workshop draws inspiration from the themes of Malva’s Transformations exhibition and includes related writing exercises. The exhibition explores human existence, corporeality, change, and our relationship with nature. Open to writers of all levels—no special expertise required. The workshop is led by librarian Johanna Nurminen.
Additional information
Lahden kaupunginkirjasto Lahti City Library Library Services Coordinator, Communications, Nora Nordman, Tel. 044 416 4103, nora.nordman@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library's autumn events kick off in August. The library's event autumn is full of Lahti love, featuring small local environmental actions, memories, and globally touching themes, guaranteed musical joy, and as a new event category, free film screenings.
The theme for Lahti libraries' autumn 2025 events is Lahti 120 Years. Through this theme, the events will delve into the city of Lahti and the essence of being from Lahti, explored through beautiful memories, poetry, and compelling author visits.
In September, the featured author guest will be Timo Sandberg from Nastola, whose writing brings thrilling history to life in a captivating way. Sandberg is a prolific author and crime novelist, known especially for his award-winning Otso Kekki mystery novels set in Lahti.
– Our goal is to create an annual program that is as up-to-date as possible, while also being thematically engaging, widely beneficial to residents, and uplifting, says Suvi Haikola, the Head of Library Services responsible for events.
– In this autumn’s events, we’ve thoroughly incorporated Lahti’s 120th anniversary, for example through local author guests, Haikola continues.
Love for Lahti is also reflected in small, everyday environmental actions. During Finland’s Nature Week, a Mini Trash Workshop will be held to encourage everyone to take care of their surroundings.
Syksyn tapahtumat tulvivat Lahti 120 -teemaisia tapahtumia, saadaan nauttia niin Lahtelaisesta runoillasta kuin Lahti-
The autumn program is overflowing with Lahti 120-themed events, offering moments to enjoy a Lahti-themed poetry evening and a Lahti-themed music quiz. In November’s Erätauko dialogue, a variety of library memories from Laune Library will be shared, and the role of local libraries will be discussed.
– It’s especially wonderful to celebrate Lahti’s anniversary together with residents through a diverse range of events that highlight Lahti and Lahti identity, Haikola summarizes.
In September, fantasy author Magdalena Hai will visit Lahti Main Library. Hai won the Finlandia Prize for children’s and youth literature in 2023 with her book Sarvijumala. In October, the guest will be Yle journalist Maxim Fedorov, who has closely followed Russia’s war of in Ukraine for over three years. Based on this, he has written My Ukraine and The Stages of War. His third book, to be published this year, explores Finnish-Ukrainian relations during the Soviet era and his personal search for Ukrainian roots. In November, as part of Nordic Author Week, Kaj Korkea-Aho will visit. His novel The Red Room (2021) was nominated for both the Nordic Council Literature Prize and the Runeberg Prize.
High-quality children's events are also part of the autumn program. In Liipola and Mukkula libraries, a Illustration Workshop will be held in September for primary school children, introducing expressive human and animal character design using simple basic shapes. In December, Linnateatteri will perform the hilarious play Tatu and Patu’s Strange Dream Show in the main library’s auditorium.
Musical events begin in August with Preludios Americanos, a concert of skilled guitar music from four South American countries, performed by classical guitarist Janne Lehtinen in the main library’s music area. In October, enjoy enchanting film music in a concert by internationally acclaimed local cellist and mezzo-soprano Seeli Toivio.
Due to its popularity, the Library Open Stage will continue in the autumn program. The stage is open to everyone—any musician, singer, spoken word artist, duo, or group is welcome to perform. The open stage is hosted by Ville Kujala, a singer-songwriter known for leading the long-running Acoustic Club at Lahti’s legendary Restaurant Torvi.
A new addition this autumn is the launch of Library Film Screenings. Free screenings will be held at the main library, catering to various audiences. Baby Cinema is aimed at parents and caregivers of babies and toddlers, while the Film Club features comedy, drama, and horror films. All Film Club screenings follow current age rating guidelines. In December, the Film Club will host a delightful Christmas Movie Marathon, with films starting already during the day.
The November gaming event "Game Över" invites absolutely everyone to play. This joyful Game Week event is designed for people of all ages who are interested in games and gaming culture.
Throughout the autumn, the Lahti City Library offers a wide variety of events, all with free admission. There are familiar reading, crafting, and writing groups, as well as digital guidance. Children and families can enjoy recurring events such as story times.
You can pick up the library’s event brochure at any library location, and explore the events online via the Event Calendar at lastu.finna.fi (in finnish, link opens in a new window). The brochure includes events at the main library and branch libraries from August to December.
The event brochure is meant to serve as a kind of map, helping everyone confidently find joy and activities for the autumn, says Nora Nordman, Library Services Coordinator responsible for communications at Lahti libraries.
Participation is easy and accessible, as library events are always free of charge and open to everyone. We also follow safer space principles in library facilities and events to ensure a safe experience for all, Nordman adds.
The brochure can be picked up for personal use and shared with family and friends. Everyone can mark and plan how they want to enjoy the library’s wonderful event offerings throughout the season. Behind the brochure’s production is a tremendous amount of staff expertise and work hours, so of course we hope as many people as possible will pick up this free brochure as their personal treasure map for the autumn,” Nordman emphasizes.
Library events are designed to be accessible and inclusive. Some events are livestreamed, allowing participation from home.
This autumn, we’ve marked livestreamed events in the brochure with a dedicated logo, making them easy to find. It’s important to highlight the possibility of accessible and inclusive participation—and to make that clearly visible, Nordman says with enthusiasm.
Library events offer equal opportunities for everyone to participate. Library provide access to reliable information and culture, and are organized to promote literacy, active citizenship, and the vitality of the municipality.
Additional information:
Lahti City Library, Service Manager, Suvi Haikola, p. 044 416 3239, suvi.haikola@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library, Library service coordinator, communication, Nora Nordman, p. 044 416 4103, nora.nordman@lahti.fi
Kuva: Magdalena Hai (Kuvaaja: Piritta Häkälä)Kuva: Seeli Toivio (Kuvaaja: Ville Paul Paasimaa)Kuva: Timo Sandberg (Kuvaaja: Jukka Sandberg)Kuva: Maxim Fedorov (Kuvaaja: Heorhi Voronov)
Mobile Library Saaga's autumn routes have been updated and started operating from August 1st. The route changes are based on customer feedback and anticipate the closure of Laune Library in 2026. There are 13 new stops, and 11 stops have been removed.
Laune has received three new stops. The mobile library will stop at Mäntsäläntie 37 and Etelätie 24 on even weeks. Additionally, it will visit Laune Family Park every Friday from 18:45 to 19:05.
– Laune Family Park is an interesting new stop, says Service Manager Johanna Mattila, who is responsible for the mobile library service.
– We hope that families enjoying the park will also find their way to the mobile library services, Mattila continues.
In South Lahti, customers are also served by Renkomäki Library and Liipola Library. In these locations, library facilities and materials can be used independently every day from 6:00 to 22:00.
The mobile library brings materials close to customers. By reserving materials in advance, customers have access to the entire Lastu library collection.
The usage policy for meeting rooms at Lahti Main Library is changing:
each customer may use the rooms for a maximum of 6 hours per week, and a single reservation may last no longer than 3 hours.
The new policy will take effect on August 1, 2025, and it also applies to group study rooms. The change is due to increasing demand of free workspaces. We aim to ensure that as many customers as possible have an equal access to the facilities. The new policy promotes fair and efficient use of the rooms.
The Regional Council of Päijät-Häme is introducing an art bag that can be borrowed in every municipality of Päijät-Häme, allowing residents to try making art in their daily lives and get inspired by art.
The art bag can be borrowed from the library, and each municipality has one bag available for loan. The bags circulate only within the library service of their own municipality. The loan period for the art bags is two weeks.
The art bags contain instructions and tips for making art on different themes. Each municipality has its own unique bag. Eight artists have been involved in creating the bags.
The idea for using art bags originated in Asikkala, where literary art cases have previously been available for loan. Now the activity is being expanded to the entire Päijät-Häme region. The project is part of an initiative aimed at developing municipal cultural activities and promoting the accessibility of art. The concept and compilation of the bags were overseen by Laura Mellanen, who served as the regional artist for the Regional Council of Päijät-Häme. The bags were created as part of the Päijät-Häme Cultural Network project, funded by the Regional Council of Päijät-Häme and the Ministry of Education and Culture.
The mobile library Saaga will be on a summer break in July.
Lahti's mobile library Saaga will be on a break from July 1st to 31st. During this time, the bus will not operate its routes.
Materials borrowed from the mobile library will not have an extended loan period during the July break. The pickup time for reserved materials will be extended due to the break. The pickup time for reservations already waiting in the mobile library has been extended until August 17th, and the pickup time for new reservations will be August 20th.
You can return loans to the nearest library during the summer break. Loans can also be renewed in the online library. You can renew loans up to five times, provided there are no reservations on them.
During the summer break, reservations can be picked up from the main library.
For other library matters during July, you can contact the nearest library.
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Service manager, local library services, Pirita Rautavuo tel. 044 483 1513 Pirita.Rautavuo@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library Service manager, procurement and logistics services, Johanna Mattila tel. 044 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
Have you already registered as a customer of the E-library? Are you familiar with the library's diverse e-services? Welcome to learn more!
In the main library's 1st floor, E-library introduction sessions will be held, where you can drop by to hear and ask about the E-library and other library e-materials.
Tue 29.4. from 10-12 and 15-17
At the main library's information point, you can get acquainted with the E-library and its usage.
The E-library is a mobile application that offers a wide range of audiobooks, e-books, and digital magazines. You can borrow from a growing selection of over 7000 books and read about a hundred digital magazines. Materials are available in many different languages and are offered for all ages.
More information about the E-library: https://www.kansalliskirjasto.fi/fi/e-kirjasto
Welcome to the library to take advantage of impressive and entertaining content!
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Information Specialist Mira Rissanen Phone: 044 416 3773 Email: Mira.Rissanen@lahti.fi
There will be a short service interruption in the web library on the morning of Tuesday, April 29.
Due to maintenance work, the Lastu web library will be unavailable starting at approximately 7:00 AM on Tuesday, April 29. The interruption is expected to be as brief as possible, with an estimated duration of about 10–15 minutes.
A book recycling service, Kirjan Kiertorata, is open at Lahti's main library. The fundraiser by donating, which encourages sustainability, is open until the end of June and will be open at the Renkomäki library from July 1st to August 3rd.
Kirjan Kiertorata is part of a development project initiated by the Orimattila-based antiquarian bookstore Finlandia Kirja, which aims to build a nationwide recycling network for used books. You can donate all kinds of literature, regardless of topic, genre, or binding. Comics and entire magazine volumes are also accepted.
Please note that encyclopedia series or their parts, as well as books stored outdoors, with odor issues, or completely broken, are not accepted. Additionally, donations of more than 200 books cannot be brought to the box. For such large deliveries, please contact Finlandia Kirja directly to arrange delivery.
The donation point provides plastic bags for packing the books. There are also forms to attach to the shipment. After filling out the voluntary donation form, recyclers can receive an email value report for books suitable for antiquarian resale and a 10% reading voucher based on the online store price of these books. The reading voucher can be used as a payment method at www.finlandiakirja.fi.
Finlandia Kirja is Finland's largest independent bookstore, employing nearly 40 people. Through its online store, Finlandia Kirja serves a wide range of literature enthusiasts and maintains to the principles of sustainability and sustainable development, which Lahti libraries also support.
Kirjan Kiertorata recycling service at Lahti's main library until June 30, 2025. You can find the Kirjan Kiertorata donation box near the entrance to the main library's auditorium. And in Renkomäki library from July 1st to August 3rd, 2025.
Sustainable development and circular economy stem from the library – Welcome to the library to make circular economy actions!
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Service manager, local library services, Pirita Rautavuo tel. 044 483 1513 Pirita.Rautavuo@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library Service manager, procurement and logistics services, Johanna Mattila tel. 044 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
For two weeks, the Lahti main library will pilot flexible digital support service, available without an appointment.
A trial of the digital support area will be held in the 1.st floor of the main library from March 31 to April 13.
A media instructor will assist with digital issues without an appointment:
Mon, March 31, 10-12 Wed, April 2, 15-17 Fri, April 4, 13-15 Mon, April 7, 10-12 Wed, April 9, 15-17 Fri, April 11, 13-15
You can find the digital guide near the information desk in the adult area.
Please note that we do not assist with strong identification matters, banking and financial issues, or fill out applications on customers behalf. Devices must be in working condition.
For more information:
Lahti City Library
Toni Tiainen Media Instructor toni.tiainen@lahti.fi Tel. 050 398 5952
Illustration: Päivi Tolonen / Lahden kaupunginkirjasto
The selection of season tickets available for borrowing has expanded. You can now also borrow a swimming hall card from the library.
The swimming hall season tickets provided by the Sports Services are available for borrowing from the Lahti Main Library and the Nastola Library. There are a total of 2 season tickets.
The library’s selection includes several season tickets for various cultural and sports events. You can borrow each season ticket once during the spring and autumn seasons. The loan period for season tickets is 1 week.
Please take good care of the card you borrow. A replacement fee will be charged for lost cards provided by LSL and the Sports Services.
Ask more from the library.
Photo: Toni Tiainen / Lahti City Library
Additional information:
Lahti City Library, Head of Library Services, Suvi Haikola, tel. 044 416 3239, suvi.haikola@lahti.fi
The year 2024 at Lahti City Library was a year of turning new pages and changes in many ways.Among other things, the libraries in Lahti received a new library system, a new mobile library, and the national E-library was introduced. Additionally, changes were made as the Lahti library network was reviewed. The decision to close the Laune Library from the beginning of 2026 was made in the fall of 2024. Statistics show that customers consistently accessed library services through various routes, with more visitors to the library and increased participation in virtual events.
Library Services Towards New and Innovative Solutions
In mobile library services, a single vehicle model was adopted at the beginning of 2024 as the old vehicles reached the end of their lifecycle, and services were completely paused from August 20 to November 24. The new electric mobile library was introduced in the fall of 2024. Lahti City Library organized a naming competition for the new mobile library in July-August. Nearly five hundred name suggestions were received, and the new mobile library was named Saaga. Lahti’s new bookmobile Saaga started its routes on November 25.
The national E-library was also introduced in Lahti in April 2024. The national E-library was created through the collaboration of the National Library and public libraries to improve the availability of e-materials for library customers. For Lahti residents, the E-library introduced remote-access magazines as a new type of material.
Lahti’s first neuropsychiatric lending service (nepsy-lainaamo) was opened at the main library on August 28. The service was realized as one of the projects of Lahti City’s participatory budgeting. The nepsy-lainaamo is intended for borrowing and familiarizing with tools that help with neuropsychiatric challenges.
The new library system was implemented in the fall of 2024. The transition to the new system took place from September 16 to September 29, 2024.
The Welfare and Leisure Committee decided on October 9, 2024, to close the Laune Library from January 1, 2026. Regarding the Mukkula Library, the committee decided that the new library would not be located in the upcoming Mukkula multipurpose building, but another location would be sought.
Growth in Library Visits
A total of nearly 952,809 customer visit in Lahti libraries during the year 2024, which was about 2.7 percent more than the previous year.
A total of 1,874,708 loans were made, which was 1.2 percent less than the previous year. This was likely influenced by the service interruption due to the library system change and the discontinuation of the second bookmobile. A total of 81,453 e-loans were made. E-material loans increased by 15.3 percent compared to the previous year.
The library does significant work in promoting reading among children and young people. Last year, children’s and young people’s books accounted for 48% of all book loans. The borrowing of children’s materials has been increasing in recent years, especially in children’s fiction. This growth has been partly influenced by expert material selection work, ensuring a wide and diverse collection of books for children and young people.
The investment in literacy work for children and young people is also reflected in the loan numbers. The library offers material recommendations and various media education packages for each grade level through schools. A library employee, “vinkkari" (a material recommender), can be invited to the school to provide material recommendations and reading suggestions for age-appropriate books, or the class can come to the library to listen to them. A library employee can also be invited to the school to talk about media education. Topics can include safe use of media, age limits, and source criticism. Last year, 3,579 children and young people were reached through book recommendations and media education packages.
Customers found their way back to the Renkomäki Library, as the number of visitors to the Renkomäki Library, opened in 2023 in the multipurpose building Aura, increased by 26 percent compared to the previous year. The number of visitors during self-service hours rose by a whopping 64.9 percent compared to the previous year. Additionally, loans also increased by about 10 percent.
Free Events Organized by Libraries Attracted Customers
The events recorded nearly 8,911 visits. The number of participants in virtual events increased from last year, with 1,182 participants in virtual events in 2024, compared to 730 virtual participants the previous year.
The library offered residents several opportunities to participate in societal discussions in a constructive and encouraging spirit. Dialogue sessions were held in libraries, discussing the library’s collections and engaging with young people. In connection with the review of the library network, resident meetings were held to discuss the importance of the local library to the residents of the area in the spirit of dialogue.
Additional Information:
Salla Palmi-Felin Library Services Director Lahti City Library Phone: +358 50 559 4098 Email: salla.palmi-felin@lahti.fi
Infographic Images: Nora Nordman / Lahti City Library
The technical issues with the mobile library have been fixed, and Saaga is back in service.
The Lahti City Library’s mobile library, Saaga, will resume its school and daycare routes, as well as evening routes, according to the announced schedule starting Wednesday, February 5th. The supplier of the library bus repaired the technical fault in Saaga.
You can find the mobile library schedules and routes on the Lastu online library.
See you at Saaga’s stops!
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Service manager, procurement and logistics services, Johanna Mattila 044 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
The Ambassador of Ukraine to FinlandOlga Dibrova visited the Lahti Main Library on Thursday, January 30th, for the donation event of the Ukrainian Bookshelf project. The event celebrated the donation of Ukrainian books to the Lahti library network.
The book donation was received by Mayor Niko Kyynäräinen and Library Services Director Salla Palmi-Felin. The event also featured a musical performance by Ukrainian students from Kirkonkylä School.
The Ukrainian Bookshelf project was initiated by Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska. Through this project, over 200 bookshelves have been established in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America.
The project is part of an initiative by Olena Zelenska and the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed at distributing Ukrainian literature to libraries worldwide.
– Literature and reading provide us with experiences, skills, and knowledge. Our roots live in and through culture. It is a pleasure and an honor to receive this book donation and offer our residents the opportunity to explore Ukrainian literature, says Mayor Niko Kyynäräinen.
With the donation, over 40 new Ukrainian books are available for loan in Lahti libraries. The collection mainly consists of children’s and young adult literature, but also includes adult literature. It features both fiction and non-fiction books, as well as classics of Ukrainian literature and poetry. Additionally, the collection includes some works from the Ukrainian primary school literature curriculum. The Lastu library collections have 350 Ukrainian books available for loan.
– We have strived to serve our Ukrainian-speaking customers comprehensively and meet their needs. This book donation supports us in this work, and we are very grateful for it, says Library Services Director Salla Palmi-Felin.
Additional information:
Salla Palmi-Felin Director of Library Services salla.palmi-felin@lahti.fi / tel. 050 559 4098
The Ambassador of Ukraine to Finland, Olga Dibrova, will visit the Lahti Main Library on Thursday, January 30th, starting at 11 AM, for the donation ceremony of the Ukrainian Bookshelf project. The event will celebrate the donation of Ukrainian books to the Lahti library network.
The Ukrainian Bookshelf project was initiated by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska. Through this project, over 200 bookshelves have already been established in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America.
The event will feature speeches by the Ambassador of Ukraine to Finland, Olga Dibrova, the Mayor of Lahti, Niko Kyynäräinen, and the Director of Library Services, Salla Palmi-Felin, as well as a musical performance by Ukrainian students from Kirkonkylä School.
The event will be held in the event area of the Lahti Main Library and will last approximately 45 minutes. Ukrainian partners and stakeholders, as well as other Ukrainians in the Lahti area, have been invited to the event. The event is open to everyone.
Additional information:
Salla Palmi-Felin Director of Library Services salla.palmi-felin@lahti.fi / tel. 050 559 4098
International House Lahti www.internationalhouselahti.fi ihl@lahti.fi
The Lahti mobile library will temporarily not operate its routes due to a prolonged malfunction.
The cause of the mobile library’s operational issues has not yet been identified, and the vehicle has been sent to the supplier for further investigation. The mobile library will not be in service until further notice.
Efforts are being made to temporarily replace the mobile library service with an appropriate service concept. The aim is to deliver reserved materials to customers as well as materials to schools and kindergartens. More information will be provided as soon as possible.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Please follow updates on the Lastu online library.
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Service manager, procurement and logistics services, Johanna Mattila 044 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
Lahti City Library’s eventful spring starts in January. The library’s spring events are full of freshness, nature, science, and means of civic engagement.
The theme for the spring 2025 events at Lahti libraries is civic engagement, which will delve into topics ranging from election information to environmental conservation. Lahti City Library is also involved in the Youth Elections, where young people learn about elections, parties, and voting, and acquire important democratic skills for civic engagement. Civic engagement is widely reflected in the selection of guests and the encouragement of societal influence. Civic engagement encourages focusing on sustainable solutions, which improves people’s well-being, understanding, and living environment.
In January, there will be notable guests such as Anna-Sofia Berner, a journalist from Helsingin Sanomat and former Washington correspondent. Berner has written the book “Ten Wounds in the Heart of America” (2024), which addresses the pain points of American society and their impact around the world. During her visit, Berner will talk about her current book and the experiences behind it.
Civic engagement is also explored multidimensionally through nature activism and environmental influence, which is vital for humans. In April, the guest will be award-winning nature documentary director Petteri Saario, known for his documentaries on the relationship between humans and nature, such as “Activist” (2016) and “The Harshest of the Harsh” (2014).
Music events are strongly rooted in the library’s program. The entertaining library music quizzes are familiar cornerstones of the events, and there will also be refreshing concerts that shake up traditions in a suitable way. The earthy tunes will be led by Luomuduo, the loudest trailblazer of Nordic instrumental post-folk, whose roots are deep in folk music and traditional playing.
During the spring, the city library offers a wide range of events with free access for everyone. There are familiar reading, craft, and writing circles, as well as digital guidance. There are also many recurring events for children and families, such as storytelling sessions. A highlight of the spring is the “Chemist’s Mystery” workshops for 1st to 4th graders, held at both the main library and branch libraries.
“We strive every year to plan the richest, most encouraging, and timely event program possible, which serves our customers widely,” says Suvi Haikola, the service manager responsible for the library’s events.
Library events are an equal opportunity for everyone to participate. They provide an opportunity for reliable information and culture. Events are organized to promote literacy and active citizenship, as well as to maintain the municipality’s vitality.
Library events can be attended accessibly and inclusively. Some of the library’s events are streamed so that they can also be followed from home. We follow the principles of safer spaces in the library premises and events to ensure a safe participation experience for everyone.
The library’s event brochure can be picked up from the libraries, and events can also be explored on the library’s website, Tapahtumakalenteri, lastu.finna.fi. The event brochure includes the events of the main library and branch libraries from January to May.
Additional information:
Lahti City Library, Head of Library Services, Suvi Haikola, tel. 044 416 3239, suvi.haikola@lahti.fi
There will be a short service interruption in the payment functions of the Lastu online library and Lahti libraries at the turn of the year.
Online payments will not be possible to conduct in the Lastu online library from December 31, 2024, at 11:00 PM to January 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM due to the introduction of a new financial management system.
During the interruption, it will also not be possible to make payments at the service desks in the Lahti libraries.
Nastola Library will switch to self-service hours earlier than usual on Friday, December 27th. The staff will serve customers till 3 PM, after which the library’s facilities and services will be available for self-service.
At Nastola Library, self-service hours will start earlier than usual on December 27th.
The first weeks of December are almost behind us, but there are still many advent calendar doors to open. So, you still have plenty of time to follow the library’s advent calendar, which this year has the theme “Did you know?”
Behind each door, you’ll find a fun or useful fact about the library. For example, did you know that exactly 100 new copies of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid" (Neropatin päiväkirjaa) have been acquired for Lahti libraries? How high would such a stack reach?
You can find the advent calendar on the library’s Instagram @lahtikirjasto or on our Facebook page Lahti City Library.
With Christmas materials, you can immerse yourself in the holiday and Christmas vacation atmosphere.
The loan period for Christmas materials is 2 weeks, so by timing your library visit correctly, you can easily keep the loans over the holidays or even into early January. The Christmas collection features many new items across several departments, both in the main and branch libraries.
You can find new Christmas items for both children and adults in the online library.
Welcome to borrow Christmas materials and other holiday reading!
Ahtiala Library’s Christmas cart invites you to borrow!
In the Lahjoita lämpöä -campaign, a total of 338 knitted items, including socks, mittens, and hats, were delivered.
In the Joulupostia ikäihmisille -campaign, a total of 2,312 Christmas cards were delivered to lonely elderly people.
Both the knitted items and the cards have also been distributed to those in need.
What was it about? Christmas charity campaigns in autumn 2024 at Lahti City Library:
Lahti City Library participated in the Lahjoita lämpöä campaign organized by the A-Clinic Foundation and EHYT ry from 2.9.–30.11.2024, collecting mittens, gloves, and wool socks for the homeless and others in need.
Lahti City Library also participated in the Joulupostia ikäihmisille campaign from 4.11.–6.12.2024. The campaign invited residents to send Christmas cards to the elderly. The purpose of the campaign is to share Christmas joy with the elderly – especially those who receive few holiday greetings. The campaign is under the patronage of the President of the Republic, Alexander Stubb.
Christmas charity campaignsare still ongoing at Lahti City Library. Donate warm items this week or bring Christmas mail for the elderly next week.
At the library’s charity collection points, you can spread Christmas cheer and help in the following ways.
Donate Warmth by Knitting - Lahjoita lämpöä -campaign Lahti City Library is participating in the Lahjoita lämpöä -campaign by A-Clinic Ltd and EHYT ry from September 2 to November 30, 2024, collecting mittens, gloves, and woolen socks for the homeless and others in need. Are you inspired to help by knitting, or do you have ready-made, unused knits to donate?
You can knit and donate woolen mittens, gloves, and socks for the collection! Bring your knits to the main library’s collection point by the end of November.
Send Christmas Mail to the Elderly - Joulupostia ikäihmisille -campaign Joulupostia ikäihmisille -campaign invites residents to send Christmas cards to the elderly. Lahti City Library is participating in the campaign from November 4 to December 6, 2024. The campaign aims to share Christmas joy with the elderly, especially those who receive few holiday greetings. For some elderly people, this Christmas remembrance may be the only one they receive, making it even more significant in combating loneliness. The campaign is sponsored by the President of the Republic, Alexander Stubb.
You can participate in spreading Christmas joy by delivering a Christmas card to the main library’s collection point. Additionally, collection points can be found at the Ahtiala, Laune, Kärpänen, and Nastola branch libraries.
The campaign poster says, "Light up the darkness. Touch with a card."
The mobile library Saaga has arrived at the library and will serve customers starting Monday, November 25th, 2024. You can get to know the new mobile library Saaga in front of the Main library on Friday, November 22nd, from 12 PM to 2 PM. Welcome to meet Saaga!
Schedules and routes can be found on the Lastu online library.
Additional information:
Lahti City Library Service manager, procurement and logistics services, Johanna Mattila 044 416 3228 Johanna.Mattila@lahti.fi
EDIT 19.11.2024 The version update has been completed for the Lastu libraries’ library system, and the services are functioning normally
----------
Short service interruption 17.11.-19.11. – please note the annual system update of the Lastu libraries’ library system
The version update of the Lastu libraries’ library system will take place from November 17th to November 19th, 2024. During this time, the Lahti City Library and other Lastu libraries will not offer borrowing, returning, or reservation services. The libraries will be open, but the self-service hours of the branch libraries will not be available.
The version update of the library system will begin on Sunday, November 17th at 7 PM. The system is expected to be back in use on Tuesday, November 19th at 12 PM.
The library system will be out of service during the update, causing a short service interruption for users. Additionally, during the version update, the libraries’ check-in station and check-out stations, self-service, and e-services connected to the system will be out of use. However, the online library will be available to customers during the version update; for example, materials can be searched, but availability information will not be visible, and logging into the online library or renewing and reserving loans will not be possible.
A new library system was introduced in the Lastu libraries in the fall of 2024. The library system will be updated to a new version approximately once a year in the future. The version update will be carried out simultaneously in all libraries using the same system. The version update will bring new features to the system, improve its usability, and further strengthen the system’s security.
The libraries will be open during the version update, but borrowing, returning, or reserving will not be possible. There will be no due dates or final pick-up dates for reservations during the version update period. The self-service hours of the branch libraries will be closed on Sunday, November 17th at 6 PM and are expected to reopen by Tuesday evening.
Opening hours of Lastu libraries during version update 17.11.-19.11.2024
Lahti libraries
Lahti main library
Sun 17.11.: 10 am to 4 pm (self-service)
Mon 18.11.: 8 am to 8 pm, self-service from 8 am to 10 am
Tue 19.11.: 8 am to 8 pm, self-service from 8 am to 10 am
Lahti branch libraries (Ahtiala, Jalkaranta, Kärpänen, Laune, Liipola, Mukkula, Nastola, Renkomäki) are open during service hours. Self-service hours are not available on Sun 17.11. after 6 pm. Self-service hours will return on Tue 19.11. after service hours.
Ahtiala library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Jalkaranta library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 12 pm to 5 pm
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 5 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Kärpänen library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Laune library
Sun 17.11.: Closed
Mon 18.11.: 10 am to 7 pm, self-service from 10 am to 1 pm
Tue 19.11.: 10 am to 7 pm, self-service from 10 am to 1 pm
Liipola library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 12 pm to 5 pm
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 5 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Mukkula library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 3 pm
Mon 18.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Nastola library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Renkomäki library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 1 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Asikkala library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 12 pm to 7 pm
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Hartola library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: Closed
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 3 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Heinola library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 6 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 10 am to 3 pm, newsroom 9 am to 2 pm
Tue 19.11.: 10 am to 7 pm, newsroom 9 am to 11 am, self-service open approximately after service hours
Hollola main library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 9 am to 4 pm
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 4 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Kalliola library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: Closed
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 7 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Hämeenkoski library
Sun 17.11.: Closed
Mon 18.11.: Closed
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 4 pm
Kärkölä library
Sun 17.11.: Closed
Mon 18.11.: Closed
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 4 pm
Orimattila library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 11 am to 4 pm
Tue 19.11.: 11 am to 4 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Padasjoki library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 10 am to 3 pm
Tue 19.11.: 10 am to 5 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Sysmä library
Sun 17.11.: self-service from 7 am to 6 pm
Mon 18.11.: 12 pm to 6 pm
Tue 19.11.: 12 pm to 6 pm, self-service open approximately after service hours
Check the up-to-date opening hours in the online library at lastu.finna.fi.
The annual staff development day will cause exceptions to the library's opening hours on 1.11.
Lahti libraries will be closed on Friday, 1.11., due the annual staff development day. The mobile library will also not be operating. In addition, the main library will be closed on Saturday, 2.11., due to All Saints' Day.
Self-service hours in Ahtiala, Jalkaranta, Kärpänen, Mukkula, Nastola, and Renkomäki will be open for independent use. Liipola's self-service hours are temporarily out of use due to an technical fault.
The welfare and leisure board of Lahti unanimously decided to close the Launee library as of January 1, 2026.
The board states that the savings targeted for the library's financial plan years 2026 – 2027 will be realized with this decision.
The mobile library routes will be redesigned from the beginning of 2026, taking into account the closure of the Laune library.
In addition, the board decided that the library in Mukkula will continue to operate, but the location of the library in more affordable premises than the multi-purpose building will be under clearance.
Otherwise, the board decided the issues according to the agenda at its meeting on October 9, 2024.
The selection of musical instruments in the main library's hobby rooms has been expanded with an electronic drum kit.
The Main Library collection of musical instruments has been expanded. We have acquired a set of Roland electronic drums, which emulate the feel of playing acoustic drums.
You can play the electronic drums in the piano room 4. The piano room can be reserved via the Timmi booking system. Read more about the rooms for recreational activities and how to reserve them at https://lastufinna.lahti.fi/rooms-for-recreational-activities/ (opens to a new window).
We also have some additions to the collection of sports equipment that can be borrowed. The library now has new equipment that may tempt our customers to go hiking or doing other physical exercise outdoors. The sports equipment in the library has been provided by the Lahti City Sports Services.
”Last autumn the Lahti Sports Services conducted a survey on what sports equipment our customers would wish to have. It’s great that we now have frisbee golf discs, for example,” says Suvi Haikola, Head of Library Services.
