Did you ever notice if you are a bookworm or a history freak? If so, you will not have a chance to go to one of the most famous libraries in the world, the Staatsbibliothek in Berlin, Germany. This centre is truly an educational facility, and contains countless volumes of books, manuscripts and unique documents which date back to many centuries. But let us take a closer look at the Staatsbibliothek and see why it is important for every lover of literature and history and for every one who enjoys watching significant architectural masterpieces.
The Staatsbibliothek Berlin: A Brief Overview
Known as the Berlin State Library, the Staatsbibliothek Berlin is one of the largest libraries and the oldest academic libraries in Germany. It was founded in 1661 and currently contains over 11 million media objects, becoming a real paradise for lovers of reading. The library has several branches; the listed building is situated in Berlin, along the Unter den Linden street.
The Architecture
First impressions of the Staatsbibliothek building are unforgettable because of the rather elaborate architecture. Established in 1889, the aspect of the building that encloses the library is designed in the manner of combined late Renaissance and Baroque styles. The door and the entryway have pillars, sports and designs that are so detailed that you’ll feel like you’re in a different era.
Inside the library, people are given more breathtaking architectural designs of the library. The principal space is the Main Reading Room which is decorated at the top of the ceiling with frescoes while the bookshelves are both aesthetically designed and go on for what feels like a hundred miles. The extension includes both the classical design and the contemporary comfort, which makes this interior both majestic and homey.
The Collections
The bibliography of the Staatsbibliothek is exceptionally diverse – it boasts of a vast number of books, manuscripts, periodicals and other media of different topics and time periods. Regardless of whether you have an interest in, say, literature, science, art, music or history of civilization, you will certainly be able to find value here.
Another of the numerous strengths of the library might have to do with its being home to perhaps the world’s largest collection of incunabula, or books published before 1501. Such noble and precious books give perhaps one of the finest looks at the preliminary stage of printing and dissemination of knowledge. Also worth mentioning is the fact that the libraries of the Staatsbibliothek contain a number of antique maps, which allows gaining understanding of how the world was viewed at different stages of its evolution.
Exploring the Library
In addition to stunning architectural designs, impressive collections, and eye-opening expositional possibilities, the Staatsbibliothek also presents its visitors with a few different activities and programs. A visitor is given a detailed understanding of the history and importance of the institution as well as the acquired items and the architectural components.
For those individuals who would like to sample the ideas of a particular area of focus, there is an option to use available library research services. The scholars and researchers can apply for the purpose of study and the collections have been placed in specially assigned reading rooms fully technologically benefited.
Visiting the Staatsbibliothek
The Staatsbibliothek is in the Mitte district of Berlin and is easy to reach by car, by bus or by train. For convenience participants on arrival are welcomed by friendly staff who are always willing to offer directional assistance and respond to any inquiries.
While a majority of libraries are open without charging their-users any fees, there are some Libraries, which, if they display certain collections or have organised certain shows, may charge a small fee. It is recommended to visit the website of the particular library or call to get the most recent information.
Some basic information, which needs to be also taken into consideration when planning a visit, is a library’s opening time. The Staatsbibliothek Berlin is open from Tuesday to Saturday, but the time they open may vary from the time they close. It is essential to have enough time for sightseeing in order to avoid a situation when guests start to have boring time.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips to make your visit to the Staatsbibliothek even more enjoyable:
- To do this, make sure you develop a list of artifacts or stock you would like to see while at the library so that time is not wasted.
- It may also help to bring something to write down any interesting reading or any interesting facts or information that you find.
- Appreciate the strategic guidelines observed in the running of the library; they include prohibitions on eating or drinking within the enclosed space, and handling of fragile articles.
- There are normally tours and educational services that are provided by the library which should be benefited in order to improve one’s experience.
Conclusion
The Staatsbibliothek is a haven for book lovers, those interested in history and experiencing history in person the opportunity to receive knowledge. The library possesses the appearance of an ancient castle which adds to the marvelous view as well as the largest collection of manuscripts headed by the special manuscript collection of the librarian and lots of other interesting things which makes it interesting to visit this place. For the visitor who wants to explore the interior of this historic building and facility, observe the extent of reading and research material available for use; this Staatsbibliothek has something to unfold for all. Therefore, should you ever be in Berlin you should make it a point to take your time to visit this extraordinary place and let the power of the written word overcome you.
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