Night of the Libraries: A celebration of knowledge and democracy in Göttingen!

Night of the Libraries: A celebration of knowledge and democracy in Göttingen!

On April 4, 2025, the Lower Saxony State and University Library Göttingen (SUB Göttingen) will be the stage for the annual Night of Libraries. Under the motto "Know. Share. Discover." The library opens its doors to anyone interested from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free, but registration on site is required for some program items in order to organize the event and ensure better planning.

The diverse program offers visitors numerous opportunities for active participation. This includes guided tours, readings and workshops on “perception of democracy”. An ideas laboratory, lectures and acting performances are also on the agenda. A special highlight is the seed distribution at the Göttingen Seed Library stand and the “Korea between the Worlds” event. A flashlight expedition is offered for younger guests, while a concert rounds off the evening musically. The events take place both in the central library at Platz der Göttinger Sieben and in the historical building at Papendiek 14. The full program is available online at www.nachtderbibliotheken.de/veranstaltungen/goettingen.

Importance of libraries for democracy

Their role as places of knowledge and exchange is particularly important, especially in the current social polarization. According to the Open Society Initiative, libraries are “places of living democracy” that play a central role in promoting a democratic culture of discussion. These spaces enable citizens to deal with differences, form their own opinions and also hear and accept different views.

Wouter Bernhardt, project manager at TdOG, emphasizes that libraries are increasingly becoming the scene of anti-democratic actions, such as destroying books or disrupting events. In such an area of ​​tension, libraries must, on the one hand, act politically neutral and, on the other hand, take a clear position against right-wing populism and right-wing extremism. This challenge is complemented by the need to create non-discriminatory spaces.

The importance of libraries is emphasized not only by local initiatives, but also by the German Library Association. By providing open spaces for diverse perspectives, libraries help keep society well-informed and actively participating in democratic processes. In times when online information cannot replace direct contact with other people, the library remains an indispensable point of contact for political education and the exchange of different opinions.

The commitment of the SUB Göttingen and other libraries in Germany impressively shows how education, exchange and the promotion of democratic processes are linked. Library Night on April 4th provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate and actively participate in these values.

Franziska Peukert will be happy to provide further information. Contact options can be reached by phone at 0551 39-25805 or by email at peukert@sub.uni-goettingen.de.