Even the most conscientious student has to get out of the classroom once in awhile. Here is some valuable information on libraries, the internet and other leisure activities By Ray Weaver
S
ometimes taking a break from the classroom and getting outside is a good way to refresh a weary brain and stimulate new ideas. One of the best friends to new students in Denmark, or to anyone new to the country, is the public libraries. Public libraries in Denmark are free. Students can borrow books, music, DVDs and computer games, access the internet and read international newspapers. Perhaps more im-
Taking a ... portantly, local libraries are clearinghouses for all sorts of important public information. The librarians can also help find books and journals in other languages than Danish. If the material is not available at their library, they can often find it at another branch. “When I first came to Denmark from New York to study, I went to the library in Aarhus almost every day,” John Connelly, an advanced engineering student, told The Copenhagen Post. “It was a great comfort zone to have as I adjusted to living in a new place.” Many libraries also feature clubs for young
people, arrange exhibitions, screen films, organise children’s theatre performances and invite guest speakers. Others offer homework assistance for primary school students, language learning activities and other social events. For a free overview of the types of material available at public libraries, visit www. bibliotek.dk. Getting Connected
Although most Danish educational institutions offer free internet access, students these
days seem to need to be plugged in all the time. Most residential student halls provide Internet access included as part of the monthly rent. However, internet may not always be offered to students subletting privately or sharing a flat. Many Danish internet providers are a bit lacking when it comes to providing information in English on how to connect to broadband services. Some do not even offer subscriptions if a customer doesn’t have a social security (CPR) number. Jakob Pedersen is the founder of Bredbåndsmatch.dk. His site offers many options to
Roskilde University in Denmark A different experience
• 50% courses and 50% project work • Collaboration in groups • Unique learning style • Interdisciplinarity • Close to Copenhagen 10
ruc.dk/international