Can you imagine a library where you can borrow not just books, but also seeds and tools? Right here, at the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd, that’s exactly what you’ll find. This isn’t your typical dusty old library. The Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd, nestled near Potsdamer Platz in the heart of Berlin, is a vibrant hub for the diverse Tiergarten-Süd neighborhood. Its neighbors include the Elisabeth Krankenhaus, the Allegro-Grundschule, a community center, and the Villa Lützow, all contributing to the lively atmosphere.
Since 2013, the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd has been transforming into a “Green Library.” It has received funding from two EFRE-BIST-II projects: “BeLesen – Bewusst Leben und Lesen” (2016-2018) and “Uhu – Umwelt hautnah” (2019-2022). These projects have helped the library expand its offerings beyond the traditional lending of books and media. While you can still access internet PCs, free Wi-Fi, and reading events, the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd has also become an information center for urban gardening, sustainability, and DIY projects. They host lectures and informational events related to these topics.
One of the most unique features of the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd is the seed lending library. You can borrow seeds, cultivate your own plants, and even return seeds from your harvest to keep the cycle going. Another innovative offering is the Library of Things. Here, you can borrow tools, gardening equipment, and craft supplies, all free of charge. This makes the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd a valuable resource for the community, promoting resource sharing and skill development.
The Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd also serves as a dynamic space for learning and community engagement. In the mornings, they host programs for kindergartens and schools, such as picture book cinema and events tailored for specific classes. In the afternoons, the library transforms into a hub for intergenerational activities, often organized in collaboration with the dedicated citizens of the “Interessengemeinschaft Bibliothek.” This ensures that the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd remains a lively and engaging space for people of all ages. So next time you’re in Berlin, don’t just visit the Brandenburg Gate or the Reichstag Building. Take a detour to the Bibliothek Tiergarten-Süd and experience a truly unique library, a place where books, seeds, and tools all come together to enrich the community.