Berlin university libraries: 24/7 access attracts thousands!

Berlin university libraries: 24/7 access attracts thousands!

Since May 2025, the university libraries of the Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) and the Berlin University of the Arts (UdK) have set a new benchmark by being open around the clock. This innovative concept, originally presented at a Senate meeting on June 25, 2024, aims to provide optimal access to scientific resources. The Senator for Science, Health and Care, Dr. At the presentation, Ina Czyborra emphasized the importance of this initiative for the 200,000 students at Berlin's universities.

Since implementing 24/7 operations, the library has seen overwhelming usage. On some days over 6,000 visitors come, which illustrates the high demand for continuous access to learning resources. The numbers are particularly striking at the weekend: on Saturday, July 19, 2025, 5,413 visits were counted, followed by 6,142 visits on Sunday.

Impressive visitor numbers and ID card distribution

With 37 percent more visitors, July 2025 was the busiest month since the library was founded. Compared to the same period last year, attempts are being made to increase the number of new library cards, which resulted in over 4,000 new issues between May and July 2025. This number represents an increase of over 500 percent, indicating tremendous enthusiasm and acceptance of the new model.

The library offers over 1,200 workstations that are available to students. In order to regulate use during the late hours of the night, access between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. is limited to ID card holders, which above all enables other students at Berlin universities to take advantage of the library's spatial advantage.

Support for educational biographies and equal opportunities

The 24/7 operation of the university libraries is supported by the Senate Department for Science, Health and Care and represents a central place for learning, working and social encounters. The initiative not only supports various educational biographies, but also strives for equal opportunities and participation in Berlin's scientific landscape. The model project was recognized as essential for creating optimal study conditions in Berlin, as it offers constant access to relevant literature and the Internet.

This development could serve as a pioneer for similar models at other universities in Germany and shows how innovative opening times can positively change the educational landscape. The library thus becomes a retreat for concentrated learning and sustainably promotes a sense of community among students.