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DOCK1

Hack Kampmanns Plads 2, 8000 Aarhus C

Aarhus' modern multi-purpose building and cultural gathering point

Dokk1 is much more than just a striking building on the waterfront in Aarhus; it is a vibrant meeting place for all the city's citizens. Here you will find Aarhus Main Library, Citizens' Service and the City Archives all under one roof. Whether you are looking for immersion in one of the many study spaces, want to take the children on an exciting excursion or simply want to enjoy panoramic views of the water from the café, Dokk1 provides the perfect setting for your day.

Citizen service

Parking lot

Practical

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Aarhus Main Library: Knowledge, immersion and innovation

Aarhus Main Library at Dokk1 opened in 2015 and is today one of Europe's most innovative libraries. Here you have access to over 150.000 books, journals and digital media across many languages. The library is designed for both quiet and activity; you will find everything from private reading nooks to open group workspaces, ideal for students and entrepreneurial networks.

If you need technical facilities, you can use the library's computers, scanners and printers. 

A play mecca for children and families with children

For those with children, Dokk1 is a true gem in the middle of the city centre. Surrounding the entire building is the large outdoor terrace with “The Globe”, a series of creative play areas, each representing different parts of the world. Here, the children can explore and play while you enjoy the view of the harbour quay.

Inside on level 2, the adventure continues with dedicated children’s areas and reading nooks that invite both play and cozy reading hours. Also keep an eye out for “The Bell”, a giant tubular bell that rings throughout the building every time a new child is born at Aarhus University Hospital in Skejby. It’s a beautiful ceremony that marks the beginning of life in the heart of the city.

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Citizen services and practical facilities

When you enter through the main entrance, you will find Citizen Service on the right. Here you can get help with everything from issuing passports and driving licenses to guidance on benefits and subsidies. Citizen Service is open every weekday, but remember that many tasks can also be solved via their online self-service portal.

Between your errands or studies, you can visit the café on level 1. Light meals and refreshments are served here, which you can enjoy with a view of the buzz of life that always characterizes the house.

Europe's largest automatic parking garage

Underneath Dokk1 you will find a technological marvel: a fully automated parking garage with space for 1.000 cars. It is the largest of its kind in Europe and ensures safe and easy parking 24 hours a day. When you drop off your car, look up under the ceiling in the parking area. Here hangs the artwork Magic Mushrooms, an inverted city consisting of 178 small houses that weigh an impressive 21 tons.

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Practical information about Dokk1

What are the opening hours of the library?

The library is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays. On weekends, you can visit between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. If you need to return books outside of opening hours, there is an automatic drop-off box at the parking lot.

When is Citizen Service open?

Citizens' Service is ready to help you Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:00, but on Thursdays until 18:00.
Please note that Citizen Service is closed on weekends.

How does parking work at Dokk1?

The parking garage is open 24 hours a day. It costs 11 DKK per half hour to park, with a maximum of 250 DKK for a full day. It is a safe and modern solution in the heart of Aarhus.

Can I get to Dokk1 by public transport?

Yes, it's very easy. The light rail stops right at the door, and most city buses in Aarhus have stops in the immediate vicinity of the building.

Is there access for people with walking difficulties?

Yes, Dokk1 is fully accessible. You can either use the wide stairs that lead you 7 meters up to the main entrance, or take the elevator directly from street level or the parking garage.

Is there a café at Dokk1?

Yes, Dokk1 has a cozy café where you can enjoy a refreshment or light meals. The café is open from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM on weekends.

Events and arrangements at Dokk1

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Text by: Christina Hazelden
Published: 29.01.2023 - Updated January 2026