Step into a world where stories come alive at Bücherei Sankt Cäcilia. For over 170 years, this library has been a cornerstone of the community. It began in 1853. Pfarrer Kronenberg founded a Borromäusbücherei in Oberkassel.
The Borromäusverein aimed to promote religious education among laypeople. They wanted to counter bad literature with good writings. Early records show a contribution of 22.15 Talers. The library may have started in the old rectory. This building was opposite the Lippische Palais. It was later demolished.
In 1890, the library moved to the new rectory. It occupied the front half of today’s Pastoralbüro. Books were available after the 10 am Sunday Mass. This was only when the weather was dry. In the early 20th century, the library moved to Kalkuhlstraße 10.
The Pfarrheim on Kastellstraße opened in 1915. The library found a home in the “Blauer Salon”. A large black cupboard dominated the room. Books were bound in black paper. Volunteers wore black smocks during lending. Colored labels added a touch of color.
The Gestapo closed the library in 1941. Young people seized the books. They sealed the cupboards. Yet, the Borromäusverein survived. Members supported the organization by ordering an annual gift. In 1944, Oberkassel had 91 registered members.
The library reopened in June 1946. Its stock was greatly reduced. The Archdiocese took over the sponsorship. In 1953, it became the property of the parish. It was then renamed “Pfarrbücherei”.
Borrowing rates soared. A new library was needed. Frau Härle secured a donation. A new building opened next to the Pfarrheim in September 1957. It included open access lending.
In 1964, the library became public. It welcomed people of all faiths. Lending fees ended in 1969. The Kooperationskreis was founded in Beuel. This promoted cooperation between libraries.
Space became tight again. The library expanded in 1992. It added the current children’s area. Today, the 48 square meter library holds 4,000 items. Over 500 readers borrow 10,000 items each year.
Bücherei Sankt Cäcilia hosts around 100 events annually. These events attract almost 2,900 guests. Highlights include the Beueler Bücherfrühling. The Bonner Lesefest “Käpt’n Book” is also popular. Authors from across Europe visit. There are puppet shows. English theater is offered for students. Picture book screenings engage young children.
From religious texts to a family library, Bücherei Sankt Cäcilia welcomes everyone. It is a friendly place for the community. You will find current books and other media here. The selection is adapted to the seasons.
They offer regional crime novels. You can also find historical novels. Autobiographies and family novels are available. There are also many children’s books. They also have popular magazines. Even Tonies can be borrowed.
The library focuses on families and children. Women’s literature is highlighted. Regional authors are featured. Sustainability is a theme. They provide books in simple language. Bücherei Sankt Cäcilia is more than books. It is a welcoming meeting place for all.