Ebertplatz is to become the largest open-air library in Europe!

Ebertplatz is to become the largest open-air library in Europe!

Ebertplatz in Cologne could soon become a 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: transforming Ebertplatz into the largest open-air library in Europe. This is reported by ksta.de. Greve developed the first model of a weatherproof bookcase for public spaces 18 years ago and installed over 1,300 of these bookcases nationwide, 65 of them in Cologne. However, his most impressive project to date is the planned open-air library.

Ebertplatz should not only be a place for books, but also a center for volunteer work and cultural exchange. With the construction of several pavilions, which will be up to three floors high and house a million books, a space will be created that will be available to citizens for active use. Greve is planning themed pavilions such as the “Crime House” or the “House of Forbidden Books” that will attract both locals and tourists. At the same time, a rainwater collection system ensures that the surrounding area remains green and existing treetops are preserved.

Initiatives 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 citizens to actively participate in shaping their city. His approach is supported by examples from various Cologne neighborhoods where citizens have successfully revitalized public spaces.The commitment that has developed over the years leads to a lively exchange and contributes to social interaction.

Before we turn our attention to the details of the planned open-air library, it is exciting to mention that similar initiatives have long since gained a foothold in other parts of Cologne. In Preungesheim, for example, there are two bookcases that allow literature to be exchanged, borrowed and given away free of charge. These “open bookcases” can be used around the clock and have established themselves as popular meeting places. The first of these bookcases was opened on Merianplatz in 2009 and is now part of a network of public library offerings in many parts of the city.

• Erster Bücherschrank am Gravensteiner-Platz
• Zweiter Bücherschrank am Nachbarschaftsbüro, eröffnet am 09. September 2016
• Verfügbare Buchkategorien: Kinderbücher, Jugendbücher, Krimis, Sachbücher und mehr
• Bücherschrank-Paten kümmern sich um die Ordnung und Sortierung

The availability of such bookcases not only promotes reading, but also a sense of community. They offer a space where people can come together, find people to talk to and exchange ideas about literature.

Financing and implementation

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

Such an ambitious idea definitely needs a push. The citizens of Cologne are invited to become an active part of this great project. In view of the many positive examples from other Cologne districts, there is great hope that Ebertplatz will soon be transformed into a place for reading, learning and cultural exchange. In this way, Cologne could put another cultural highlight on the map and at the same time bring the community closer together.