Vienna's 'Library Chats' Expands to Favoriten to Fight Loneliness in 2026

Vienna Health Promotion (WiG) is bringing its 'Library Chats' program to the Favoriten district from February 2026. The initiative offers free, informal meetups to help residents connect and combat loneliness. No registration is needed to take part.

The expanded program will run from February 5 to June 18, 2026. Sessions will alternate between Thursdays and Fridays across four locations in Favoriten. These include the Neues Landgut Library, Per-Albin-Hansson-Siedlung Library, and the Simmering Education Center Library, where meetings resume on February 5.

Trained moderators from the Sorgenetz association will lead the discussions. The program is designed for older adults, newcomers to Vienna, and single residents looking to build social ties. Organisers have stressed that all sessions remain open to everyone at no cost.

The 'Library Chats' initiative builds on previous efforts to create welcoming spaces for conversation. By adding new venues in Favoriten, WiG aims to reach more people across the city.

The program will provide regular opportunities for social interaction until mid-June. Residents can drop in without booking, meeting others in a relaxed setting. The initiative continues WiG's work to strengthen community bonds in Vienna.