Lübeck City Library preserves 400 years of history and knowledge

Lübeck City Library stands as the 'mind and memory' of the northern German city. Its roots stretch back over 400 years, making it one of the oldest public libraries in the country. Today, it houses more than a million books, manuscripts, and artworks under a single roof.

The library's story began in the 17th century, when reformer Johannes Bugenhagen pushed for a central space to unite Lübeck's scattered collections. By the mid-18th century, it became the official deposit library for the state, requiring a copy of every text printed in the city.

One of its earliest major additions came from Hinrich Scharbau, chief pastor of St. Aegidien. He left behind 6,000 volumes and a financial endowment, now preserved in the library's Scharbausaal. The collection grew to include rare incunabula, musical manuscripts, and artworks over the centuries. During World War II, the most valuable items were moved to Saxony-Anhalt for safekeeping. Some later became war spoils, ending up in the Soviet Union. Despite these losses, the library survived and continued expanding its holdings.

The Lübeck City Library remains a key cultural institution, blending centuries of history with modern scholarship. Its vast collection—from medieval texts to musical works—reflects the city's intellectual heritage. Visitors today can explore its treasures, including the Scharbausaal and its rare books.