German Esperanto Library

In the charming town of Aalen, nestled in the picturesque region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, lies a hidden gem that beckons lovers of languages and literature alike: the German Esperanto Library, known locally as the Deutsche Esperanto-Bibliothek. This extraordinary library is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the fascinating world of Esperanto and interlinguistics, boasting an impressive collection that makes it one of the largest specialized libraries in this field worldwide.

A Storied Past

The roots of the German Esperanto Library can be traced back to 1908, when it was first established as the library of the Saxon Esperanto Institute in Dresden. In 1913, the library was relocated to Leipzig under the directorship of Albert Schramm, who also served as the director of the German Book and Writing Museum. By 1918, the Saxon Esperanto Library had its own dedicated reading room in Leipzig, making its extensive collection accessible to the public and allowing for the borrowing of books.

During the tumultuous years of the 1930s, the library faced significant challenges. In 1936, the self-dissolution of the German Esperanto Association was mandated, leading to the prohibition of Esperanto in Germany. To preserve the valuable collection, the library was offered to the Prussian State Library in Berlin, which accepted the offer. The collection, consisting of 1,800 volumes and 72 periodicals, was safely transported to Berlin, where it was meticulously organized by East Berlin Esperantists in the 1960s, making it accessible once again.

Rebirth and Relocation

Following World War II, the revival of the German Esperanto Institute in 1948 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the library. Under the leadership of Siegfried Ziegler, the institute's director and president of the German Esperanto Association, a new collection was established and housed at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. However, with Ziegler's retirement in 1953, the collection was temporarily stored in the basement of a Munich high school.

In 1967, Werner Bormann, the new president of the German Esperanto Association, spearheaded the reorganization of the institute and its library. The books from Munich formed the foundation of the German Esperanto Library, which was initially housed in a parsonage in Gechingen and later in Bissingen an der Teck. During this period, the library saw significant growth, thanks to the efforts of Adolf Burkhardt, who meticulously cataloged and managed the collection.

The library's journey took a significant turn when Karl Heinz Schaeffer, the chairman of the Esperanto group in Aalen, convinced the city's mayor, Ulrich Pfeifle, of the library's cultural value. In 1989, a contract was signed between the city of Aalen and the German Esperanto Institute, making the library a permanent loan to Aalen while remaining the property of the institute. The library was then moved to its current location within the Aalen City Library.

A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

Today, the German Esperanto Library is a beacon for Esperanto enthusiasts and scholars from around the world. With nearly 53,000 bibliographic units, including 25,768 books and brochures and 2,592 periodical titles with over 8,837 complete volumes, the library offers an unparalleled collection of resources on interlinguistics and Esperantology.

Visitors to the library can explore an extensive range of materials, from historical texts and linguistic studies to contemporary works and periodicals. The library's collection is meticulously organized, making it easy for researchers and casual visitors alike to navigate and find the information they seek. Although the library does not actively participate in the interlibrary loan system, it accepts orders from libraries that are part of the German or international loan network, ensuring that its valuable resources can be accessed by a wider audience.

Exploring the Collection

The German Esperanto Library is a haven for those passionate about the Esperanto language and its history. The collection includes rare and valuable texts that offer insights into the development and evolution of Esperanto, as well as its cultural and social impact. Researchers can delve into the works of prominent Esperanto authors, explore linguistic studies, and uncover the rich history of the Esperanto movement.

One of the highlights of the library's collection is its extensive range of periodicals, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the ongoing discussions and developments within the Esperanto community. With over 8,837 complete volumes, these periodicals offer a wealth of information on a wide range of topics, from linguistic theory to cultural events and community news.

A Community Effort

The German Esperanto Library is not just a repository of books and periodicals; it is also a testament to the dedication and passion of the Esperanto community. The library is primarily managed by the Esperanto group in Aalen, with financial support from the city of Aalen and the German Esperanto Association. This collaborative effort ensures that the library remains a vibrant and dynamic resource for Esperanto enthusiasts and scholars.

In conclusion, the German Esperanto Library in Aalen is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the fascinating world of Esperanto and interlinguistics. With its rich history, extensive collection, and dedicated community, the library offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or a curious newcomer, the German Esperanto Library invites you to explore its treasures and discover the enduring legacy of the Esperanto language.