Ebertplatz should become the largest open -air library in Europe!

Ebertplatz should become the largest open -air library in Europe!

Ebertplatz, Köln, Deutschland - The Ebertplatz in Cologne could soon become the center for book lovers and those interested in culture. Hans-Jürgen Greve, a 61-year-old architect with a special talent for urban planning, has a remarkable idea: the redesign of Ebertplatz into the largest open-air library in Europe. This reports ksta.de. Greve developed the first model of a weatherproof bookcase for public space 18 years ago and set up over 1300 of these bookcases nationwide, 65 of them in Cologne. However, his most impressive project is the planned open -air library.

The Ebertplatz should not only be a place for books, but also a center for volunteering and cultural exchange. With the construction of several pavilions, which are up to three floors and are supposed to house a million books, a space that is available to the citizens for active use is created. Greve plans thematic pavilions such as the "Crime House" or the "House of Forbidden Books", which are supposed to attract both locals and tourists. At the same time, a rainwater absorption system ensures that the surroundings remain green and existing tree tops are preserved.

initatives and commitment in Cologne

In Cologne, the proportion of volunteers is around 25 percent, which is rather low compared to other cities. Grev's vision for Ebertplatz aims to increase this number and motivate the citizens to actively help shape their city. His approach is supported by examples from various districts of Cologne, where citizens have successfully revitalized public spaces. The commitment that has developed over the years leads to a lively exchange and contribute to social cooperation.

Before we devote ourselves to the details of the planned open -air library, it is exciting to mention that similar initiatives have long gained a foothold in other parts of Cologne. In Preungesheim, for example, there are two bookcases that enable a free exchange, borrowing and giving away literature. These “open bookcases” can be used around the clock and have established themselves as popular meeting points. The first of these bookcases was opened in 2009 at Merianplatz and is now part of a network of public library offers in many districts.

• First bookcase on Gravensteiner-Platz
• Second bookcase at the neighborhood office, opened on September 9th, 2016
• Available book categories: children's books, youth books, crime novels, non -fiction and more
• book cupboard sponsors take care of the order and sorting

The availability of such book cupboards not only promotes reading, but also the feeling of community. They offer a room in which people come together, find interlocutors and exchange ideas about literature.

financing and implementation

In order to implement the implementation of the open -air library on Ebertplatz, Greve estimates the costs for the pavilions and the spectacular roof at around 10 million euros. The financing should consist of private donations and donations, because the idea is to tackle this project together with the Cologne citizens. An independent foundation that is to be launched will support the project and ensure that the design of the square meets the wishes of the residents.

Such an ambitious idea definitely needs an impetus. The citizens of Cologne are invited to actively become part of this great project. In view of the many positive examples from other Cologne Veedeln, hope is great that Ebertplatz will soon turn into a place of reading, learning and cultural exchange. So Cologne could put another cultural highlight on the map and at the same time bring the community together.