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Nuremberg’s South District Library Transforms into a Barrier-Free Reading Café

A decaying shopping centre library gets a bold reboot. Now, Nuremberg’s Südstadt hosts a café where books, coffee, and connection thrive—open to all.

In this image, we can see library. There are racks contains some books. There are tables and chairs...
In this image, we can see library. There are racks contains some books. There are tables and chairs in front of the wall.

Nuremberg’s South District Library Transforms into a Barrier-Free Reading Café

Nuremberg’s South District Library is set to move to a new, centrally located site in Südstadt. The city administration has opened a barrier-free Reading Café as part of the City Library, now operating as an 'Open Library' with 72 hours of weekly access. The project aims to create a modern space for reading, learning, and community interaction.

The relocation comes after the current library’s shopping centre location fell into disrepair. The FDP/FREE VOTERS faction proposed transforming the facility into a reading café, blending educational services with a social hub. Their vision includes a low-threshold café serving drinks and snacks while maintaining the library’s nonprofit and educational focus.

The new Reading Café is already open, offering extended hours and barrier-free access. The city will now evaluate its operation and potential partnerships. If the concept proves viable, it could reshape how libraries serve neighbourhoods across Nuremberg.

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