Ernst-Abbe Library Simplifies Access to Digital Content
The new Ernst-Abbe Library (EAB) at Engelplatz in Jena is a library of superlatives. As a modern, vibrant space for learning and engagement, the library serves the entire community and all generations with its services and offerings.
With the Hublet docking station in the cozy magazine lounge near the entrance, the library makes a clear statement: Digital content should be just as easy to access as the entire analog magazine collection, daily newspapers, and games available in this comfortable space. The six Hublet tablets are always ready for use at the self-service station. Each tablet can be used for up to two hours for reading, working, browsing, or streaming. Borrowing is done with a library card.
“With the Hublet tablets, we want to make access to our digital offerings easier and simplify internet usage,” comments Katja Müller, Director of Ernst-Abbe Library. “Using these tablets, our patrons can explore the library’s full online offerings, such as PressReader and the Thüringer Online Library (ThueBIBNet). In addition, news apps, a web browser, and encyclopedias are readily available on the home page. Many more apps can be discovered by scrolling through. A personal EAB Hublet profile creates a clear, visual structure, enabling intuitive use,” explains Kathleen Paetznick, System Administrator and Media Education Specialist.
The design of the magazine lounge complements this vision. With over 50 seating options, including armchairs, stools, rocking chairs, and sofas, the space invites visitors to relax. Even a piano is available for playing. Additionally, a coffee machine and water dispenser are provided for users.
Playful Engagement
The further development of the media collection towards digital and interactive learning offerings is one of the library's key focuses. “In the future, we plan to use the tablets for activities with school classes. Our tablet treasure hunts, which playfully teach how to search the online catalog, are already well-known. With the Hublets, we can certainly organize other educational activities even better,” says Kathleen Paetznick.
Alleviating PC Workstations
A second Hublet dock is located at the Lobeda branch library. It is positioned next to the PC workstations. People who only need the internet to research, read eBooks, or stream videos – without requiring a PC – can use the tablets and find a cozy spot elsewhere in the library. This frees up the PCs as workstations.
Photos © EAB Jena
About Ernst-Abbe Library Jena
The Ernst-Abbe Library is the public library of Jena and part of the municipal enterprise JenaKultur, with two locations: the new building in the city center and the branch library in the Lobeda district. The slogan The Whole World Under One Roof describes their philosophy as an open, pluralistic, and customer-oriented cultural, leisure, and educational institution for the people of Jena. The new building of the EAB has been awarded the title Best Library in Thuringia 2024.
With a collection of approximately 140,000 analog and digital media and around one million checkouts annually, the Ernst-Abbe Library is one of the largest and most powerful public libraries in Thuringia/Germany. On average, 26,100 visitors are counted monthly.
For more information, visit Ernst-Abbe Library Jena