AUTHOR Solvig Rosenberger-Solmecke
PUBLISHED 21. FEB 2025
Lüdenscheid town library is one of the oldest libraries in Germany. In 1857 it was founded as a public library by a Protestant pastor who, with a modest collection of 90 thalers, 20 silver groschen and a few books, laid the foundation for an institution that was to serve the public education in the city, which at the time had only 5,000 inhabitants.
Over the years, the library went through several name changes – from public library to public library to its current name, city library. Its development was characterized by numerous moves and changes. In 1936, the city of Lüdenscheid took over the previously private institution, and in 1951 it was converted from a counter library to a modern open access library.
Today, the Lüdenscheid City Library is housed in an architecturally interesting building that harmoniously combines historical and contemporary elements. A central feature is the light-flooded interior, which is characterized by a glass roof in the center of the building. This glass roof not only creates a bright, inviting atmosphere, but also serves as a light source for the shelves. With an area of around 3,000 square meters – comparable to half a football field – it offers its visitors a wide range of media and always relies on innovative technologies.
The importance of the public library for the cultural life of Lüdenscheid is reflected in the number of visitors. It records around 130,000 visitors every year, who spend an average of 1.5 hours in the library. With around 200 events per year, the public library also underlines its role as a lively place for meeting and exchanging knowledge.