Navigation and service

29 March to 1 April 2024

The German National Library will be closed at both locations. The exhibitions of the German Museum of Books and Writing will open from 10:00 to 18:00.

About us

Façade of the German National Library’s historic original building with the staircase leading up to the doorway, bathed in late summer light with people sitting on the stairs and red vines framing the entrance Photo: Klaus-D. Sonntag

Welcome to the German National Library!

The German National Library is Germany’s central archival library and – with the German Museum of Books and Writing, the German Exile Archive 1933–1945 and the German Music Archive – an archive and museum. Our services and offerings promote freedom of information and expression while strengthening the core values of our democracy. Our collections encompass a wide range of sources and can be accessed by anyone interested. This can encourage critical thinking and spark inspiration. We stand for variety, inclusion and diversity and respect the different experiences, needs and backgrounds of our users and visitors. Our services encourage active participation. We do not give space to anti-Semitism, racism, hate or agitation.

Here you can find out more about our tasks and activities, our strategy for the next few years, our organisation, the employment and training opportunities we offer, and the history of the German National Library.

to the top