Open Library Sets the Standard: 44% More Library Access in Schwerin
Following the introduction of its Open Library concept, Schwerin Public Library has increased its opening hours by almost 44 per cent. The main library is now open until 9 pm from Monday to Friday and until 5 pm on Saturdays. In doing so, Schwerin is setting a strong example for modern library services, digital inclusion and lifelong learning.
Library Director Grit Wilke is delighted with the results: “As an Open Library, our facilities can now be used far more extensively. The library is increasingly becoming an attractive third place for our community.” The technical implementation also went smoothly. “The Nexbib team has been fully committed from day one. Working with them has been a fantastic experience,” says Grit Wilke.
The success of the project is reflected not only in rising visitor numbers but also in increased borrowing. Alongside a wide range of physical and digital resources, visitors benefit from free Wi-Fi, comfortable study and seating areas, and a café. People come together here – often spontaneously – to study, work, read or simply enjoy a conversation. Thanks to the extended opening hours, these opportunities are now available for much longer. Investments in infrastructure, staff and the library environment are clearly delivering value on many levels.
Strong Public Response to Open Library
The response from local residents has been overwhelmingly positive. In particular, pupils and students had long called for access to the library during evening hours. In the first four months alone, 665 people registered to use the library during self-service hours when no staff are on site.
One user commented: “The library can be quite busy in the afternoons. During Open Library hours I can concentrate much better on studying and work.” Families are also benefiting from the additional flexibility: “It’s a fantastic service. I now visit the library with my children on Saturday afternoons. The rest of the week is already packed with commitments.”
A Valuable Asset for the Community
Silvio Horn, Schwerin’s Deputy Mayor for Culture, emphasises the significance of the project: “The introduction of Open Library is an important step in future-proofing our public library. Reading, learning and social interaction should not be limited by staffed service hours. By extending access, we are creating greater flexibility and making the library more accessible, modern and relevant to our citizens.” (*)
Schwerin Public Library is a pioneering Open Library in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania/Germany. “We are proud to be the first Open Library in our region and to inspire other libraries to follow suit,” says Grit Wilke. At a time when many local authorities face financial pressures, Open Library models offer a sustainable way to strengthen libraries – particularly in rural areas – and secure their vital role within communities for the long term.
The story does not end here. The extended evening opening hours are currently being evaluated to better understand future demand. In the longer term, Sunday opening could also be considered, providing even greater flexibility for families and other users.
About Schwerin Public Library
Schwerin Public Library in Germany serves the city’s approximately 98,300 residents and the wider region through its main library, located in the Schweriner Höfe complex in the heart of the city, as well as its branch libraries in Lankow and Neu Zippendorf.
Situated within a vibrant mixed-use development combining retail, services, housing and cultural facilities, the main library is much more than a place to borrow books. It offers space for learning, creativity, relaxation and community interaction. With a diverse and contemporary collection, a Library of Things and 564 events each year, Schwerin Public Library is one of the region’s leading cultural and educational institutions.
In 2025, the library recorded 177,859 visits, 8,683 active members and 433,301 loans. Its physical collection comprises 103,860 items.
Photos © Grit Wilke/Stadtbibliothek Schwerin
(*) City of Schwerin. Schwerin launches the first Open Library in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Press release, 2 March 2026.