Aargau canton library

Nestled in the heart of Aarau, Switzerland, the Aargau canton library, known locally as Aargauer Kantonsbibliothek, is a treasure trove of knowledge and history. This public library, with its scientific orientation and cantonal collection mandate, serves as a central hub for information, information competence, and information dissemination. It not only coordinates the Aargau library network but also plays a pivotal role in the development of the library system in the canton of Aargau.

The Rich History of Aargau Canton Library

The origins of the Aargau canton library date back to the early 19th century. Beat Fidel Zurlauben, an influential historian and mercenary leader from Zug, found himself in financial difficulties after the French Revolution halted payments from the French court. To alleviate his financial woes, Zurlauben sold his extensive collection to Germany. However, the Helvetic government intervened, preventing the collection from leaving the country and acquiring it as the foundation for a national library. Although the Helvetic Republic dissolved before these plans could be realized, the collection was transferred to the newly established canton of Aargau in 1803. This collection, known as the Zurlaubiana, forms the core of the Aargau canton library, which officially opened its doors in May 1807.

Following the dissolution of Aargau monasteries in 1841, the library acquired significant collections of medieval manuscripts and early prints from the monasteries of Muri and Wettingen. Throughout the 19th century, the library's collection continued to grow through purchases and donations of scholarly libraries.

Originally intended as a government library for members of the government, authorities, officials, and clergy, the Aargau canton library evolved over the years. By 1875, it was recognized as a specialized library, and after 1890, it became a study and educational library. Today, it stands as a public scientific library.

Exploring the Collection

The Aargau canton library boasts an impressive collection of approximately 750,000 media items, including electronic resources. Among its historical treasures are valuable and unique medieval manuscripts, such as the Muri Easter Play (1250), the beautifully illustrated Wettinger Gradual, and the three-volume Swiss Chronicle by Abbot Christoph Silberysen (1542–1608). Some of these medieval manuscripts have been digitized and are freely accessible online.

The library's collection also includes 830 books printed between 1450 and 1500, featuring rare editions like Thüring von Ringoltingen's Melusina and early hand-colored woodcut books. Additionally, the library houses rare first editions, such as the Lalebuch and Johann Peschel's Garten Ordnung, as well as richly illustrated botanical books and historical travel reports.

Moreover, the Aargau canton library maintains several archives and estates, including the book archive of the Aargau publisher Sauerländer, the Wedekind Archive, the estates of Ernst Widmer and Werner Wehrli, and the collections of Heinrich Zschokke, Hansjakob Seiler, Karl Ballmer, Eugen Bircher, and Walther Merz.

Since May 2018, the library has been a member of the HAN (Manuscripts-Archives-Estate Network) of the University Library of Basel, providing public access to cataloged medieval and early modern manuscripts from the Muri Monastery and the estate of Eugen Bircher.

Modern Amenities and Services

The Aargau canton library offers a range of contemporary media for its users, including around 40 newspapers and magazines, fiction, graphic novels, and non-fiction books on various topics. The library also provides a wide selection of DVDs for entertainment and education.

Registered users have access to a vast array of electronic media, such as e-books, specialized journals, and reference works, which can be accessed remotely.

One of the library's unique features is its mandate to collect publications related to the canton of Aargau. This collection preserves a part of the region's historical heritage and cultural identity, with Aargau publications cataloged in the Aargau Bibliography.

A Hub for Learning and Collaboration

The Aargau canton library is open to all individuals and organizations, offering media from other libraries through IDS courier or interlibrary loan services. The library is a public educational and learning space, providing 70 workstations in various environments, including a reading room, open access areas, and a group room.

During exam periods, the library hosts the Long Night of Learning, extending its hours until 10:00 PM to accommodate students' study needs. Regular training sessions, introductions, and events help users make the most of the library's offerings.

Part of a Larger Network

The Aargau library network, coordinated by the Aargau canton library, comprises around 20 libraries. It manages the Aleph library system and the Aquabrowser search interface for research. The network participates in the Joint Authority File (GND), Swissbib, and Worldcat, and is a partner of the German-speaking Switzerland Information Network.

In conclusion, the Aargau canton library is not just a repository of books and manuscripts; it is a vibrant institution dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of Aargau while providing modern resources and services for education and research. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or a casual reader, a visit to this remarkable library promises a rich and rewarding experience.