Background

Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

Explore millions of books and manuscripts at one of Europe's largest libraries, a landmark of Berlin's cultural and intellectual history.

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The Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin, or Berlin State Library, is one of the largest and most important academic research libraries in the German-speaking world, holding over 32 million items. With two main locations, it offers a vast collection spanning all disciplines, languages, and time periods.

A brief summary to Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin - Preußischer Kulturbesitz

  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • A library card is required to access and order books. Register online before your visit to save time.
  • The Unter den Linden building focuses on materials published before 1900, while the Potsdamer Straße building holds more recent publications.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the library's history and see highlights from its collections.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin on Potsdamer Straße is easily accessible by public transport. Take the U-Bahn U2 to Potsdamer Platz. Alternatively, the S-Bahn lines S1, S2, or S25 also stop at Potsdamer Platz. From either station, it's a short walk to the library. A single fare for public transport within Berlin (AB zone) is €3.80.

  • Walking

    From Potsdamer Platz, walk west towards the Kulturforum. The Staatsbibliothek is located on Potsdamer Straße 33, opposite the Berlin Philharmonie. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Berlin. A short taxi ride from Potsdamer Platz to the Staatsbibliothek will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic and the time of day.

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Discover more about Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin - Preußischer Kulturbesitz

The Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin (Berlin State Library) is more than just a repository of books; it's a living monument to German history and a vital center for research and learning. Founded in 1661, the library has grown into one of the largest universal libraries in Europe, boasting a collection of over 32 million items, including books, journals, manuscripts, maps, and musical scores. The library's history is intertwined with that of Berlin itself. Originally the Electoral Library at Cölln on the River Spree, it became the Royal Library in 1701. In 1914, the library moved to its Unter den Linden location. During the Weimar Republic, it was renamed the Prussian State Library. The collections were divided during World War II and the Cold War, with holdings split between East and West Berlin. The reunification of Germany in 1990 also meant the reunification of the library's collections. Today, the Staatsbibliothek operates from two main buildings: the original building on Unter den Linden and a modern structure on Potsdamer Straße. The Unter den Linden location primarily houses materials published before 1900, while the Potsdamer Straße building focuses on more recent publications. The library's collections include priceless treasures such as the fifth-century Quedlinburg Itala fragment, a Gutenberg Bible, and original manuscripts by Bach, Mozart and Beethoven. Visitors can explore the library's vast resources, attend exhibitions, and participate in workshops and cultural events. Guided tours are available to learn about the library's history, architecture, and collections. Whether you're a scholar, a student, or simply a lover of books, the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of knowledge and culture.

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