Witten Public Library

Witten Public Library, known locally as Bibliothek Witten, is a beacon of knowledge and community engagement in the heart of Witten, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This dynamic library system, with its central library and four district branches, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern amenities that make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

A Journey Through Time: The History of Witten Public Library

The origins of Witten Public Library date back to 1882 with the establishment of the Volksbücherei in Annen, marking the beginning of public library services in the area. By 1911, the library had found a new home in the newly constructed Märkisches Museum, with an initial collection of 4,588 volumes contributed by the Witten Educational Association.

Throughout its history, the library has experienced numerous changes and challenges. During the Nazi era, the library underwent significant censorship and was relocated to a building on Humboldtplatz, which was later destroyed in a bombing raid in 1945. Post-war, the library found temporary refuge in the Schillerschule before moving to a more permanent location on Nordstraße in 1948.

The 1950s and 60s were a period of growth and expansion for the library, with new branches opening in Heven, Rüdinghausen, and Bommern. In 1968, the central library moved to a former Sparkasse building on Ruhrstraße, where it remained until its eventual move to the Märkisches Museum in 2016.

The Modern Era: Transformation and Innovation

Today, the Witten Public Library stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation. The central library's relocation to the Märkisches Museum in 2016 marked a significant milestone, bringing with it a host of modern facilities and services. The new location boasts separate libraries for children, parents, and teenagers, catering to the diverse needs of the community.

In addition to its extensive collection of books, music, audiobooks, and DVDs, the library offers a range of board and video games for loan. Visitors can also take advantage of the large number of free-to-use internet PCs, making it a hub for digital access and learning.

The library's amenities include a cozy reading café with an outdoor terrace, a conference room, and a makerspace equipped with two Makerbot Replicator 3D printers. These facilities provide a welcoming environment for both casual visitors and dedicated learners.

A Hub of Community and Culture

The Witten Public Library is not just a place for borrowing books; it is a vibrant community center that hosts a variety of events and activities. From author readings and literary workshops to educational programs and cultural exhibitions, the library fosters a sense of community and lifelong learning.

One of the library's standout features is its commitment to digital innovation. Since 2012, the library has been a part of the Onleihe network, allowing patrons to borrow DRM-protected e-books online. The introduction of RFID tags and a self-checkout system has streamlined the borrowing process, making it more convenient for users.

In recent years, the library has also embraced social media, with a presence on platforms like Facebook and Twitter, although the latter was discontinued in 2014. These efforts have helped the library stay connected with its patrons and reach a broader audience.

Exploring the Branches

While the central library is the crown jewel, the district branches of Witten Public Library each offer their unique charm and services. The Annen branch, which moved to a new location on Annenstraße in 2017, continues to serve its community with a wide range of resources and programs.

The Herbede branch, which relocated to the Sparkasse Herbede in 2022, provides a cozy and accessible space for residents to explore the library's offerings. Although some branches, like those in Bommern and Stockum, have closed over the years, the remaining branches continue to be vital parts of their communities.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Witten Public Library looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its mission of providing access to information, fostering a love of reading, and supporting lifelong learning. The library's participation in the Filmfriend video-on-demand portal since 2020 is just one example of its commitment to staying at the forefront of digital innovation.

Despite challenges such as the ransomware attack on the city administration in 2021, which temporarily disrupted online catalog access, the library has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. With its diverse range of services, modern facilities, and rich history, Witten Public Library continues to be a cherished institution in the heart of Witten.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the city, a trip to Witten Public Library offers a unique opportunity to explore a world of knowledge and culture. From its historic roots to its modern amenities, the library is a testament to the enduring power of public libraries to inspire, educate, and connect communities.