Bibliofil

Story

Bibliofil arrived at the Mediateka on Plac Teatralny 5 one December morning in 2007, opened a book, and has not looked up since. As Wroclaw's most learned dwarf, he speaks an uncountable number of languages and dwarf dialects — though he himself has lost track of exactly how many. Other dwarfs have learnt to interpret his characteristic grunt: a specific murmur means 'yes', another means 'no'. Humans have never quite cracked the code, so it is best not to disturb a dwarf who is deep in reading.

History & Significance

Bibliofil took up his post on 4 December 2007, when he settled in front of the Lower Silesian Public Library. He is now associated with the Mediateka — a multimedia branch of the Municipal Public Library on Plac Teatralny 5 — and has become such a beloved fixture that the library even named a mobile city game after him: 'Discover Wroclaw with Dwarf Bibliofil'. He is sponsored by the library and considered one of the most respected dwarfs in the city.

Inspiration

The Mediateka is one of Wroclaw's most modern library spaces, offering books, films, music, and digital resources alongside a language cafe and community events. Bibliofil perfectly embodies its spirit: intellectual, multilingual, welcoming, and a little bookishly introverted. The dwarf's name is Polish for 'bibliophile' — a lover of books — making him the ideal mascot for a cultural institution that celebrates reading.

Fun Facts

• Bibliofil arrived on 4 December 2007 and has been absorbed in his book ever since — making him one of the more senior dwarfs in the city.
• He is said to speak a huge number of languages and dwarf dialects, though he has lost count of the exact number.
• Other dwarfs have learned to understand his characteristic grunts — humans have not been so lucky.
• The Mediateka library named a mobile city exploration game after him: 'Discover Wroclaw with Dwarf Bibliofil'.
• As one of the most respected dwarfs in Wroclaw, Bibliofil reportedly has a deciding vote in many matters concerning the city's dwarf community.

How to Find This Dwarf

Bibliofil sits in front of the Mediateka at Plac Teatralny 5, right in the city centre opposite the Puppet Theatre (Teatr Lalek) and next to the Old Town Park. From the Opera tram stop (lines 6 and 7), the Mediateka is visible across the square in under a minute. The dwarf is on the outer facade of the building, so he is visible at any time of day.

Nearby Dwarfs

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility

Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor

Bibliofil sits on a flat, wide pavement in front of the Mediateka on Plac Teatralny. The square is fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs with no barriers.