Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf

Stepping into the grand hall of the Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf, imagine the lowing of cattle. Can you almost smell the hay? This magnificent library wasn’t always a haven for books and research. It once served a very different purpose. The Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf occupies the former livestock hall of the Düsseldorf slaughterhouse. This building, rich with a past both gritty and practical, now houses a wealth of knowledge. The Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf was established in 1971, alongside the Fachhochschule Düsseldorf itself. It has a unique place in history. It was one of the first academic libraries to embrace RFID technology. This innovative system streamlined the management of their entire collection. The library’s name officially changed in 2015. When the Fachhochschule Düsseldorf became the Hochschule Düsseldorf, the library followed suit, becoming the Hochschulbibliothek der Hochschule Düsseldorf. This coincided with a significant move to the Derendorf campus. The library found its new home in the renovated and historically preserved livestock hall. The move consolidated all of the library’s resources and services under one roof. The Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf offers an extensive collection of both physical and digital resources. Students and staff can easily access e-books and e-journals, either on campus or remotely via EZProxy. A wide range of specialized databases is also available. The library is more than just books. It’s a vibrant hub for learning and collaboration. It offers various training sessions, including introductions to the library itself, research skills workshops, and courses on academic writing. The library also provides access to computer workstations, printing and copying facilities, and even a book scanner. The Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf is home to some remarkable special collections. One such collection is the Karl-Heinz Krug library. Donated in 2011, it comprises around 1500 volumes from the estate of the longtime editor-in-chief of the renowned design magazine “form”. Another treasure is a comprehensive collection of publications by and about Peter Behrens. These special collections offer unique insights into design and its history. The Hochschulbibliothek der Fachhochschule Düsseldorf is a testament to the power of transformation. From a bustling livestock market to a center of academic pursuit, its journey reflects the ever-evolving nature of knowledge and learning.