Free books and community sprießen in Hesse's public bookcases
Dozens of freely accessible bookcases across the state invite residents to take, read and exchange books, with no fees, cards or opening hours.
A growing network
Since Frankfurt placed its first mini-library on Merianplatz in 2009, dozens more have appeared in city districts and beyond. Wiesbaden, Kassel, Hanau and other towns now host their own versions, from converted telephone boxes to brightly painted cabinets with glass fronts and simple shelves in public buildings. City websites and internet platforms list locations, often with maps so readers can choose a spot in a café, on a park bench or at home on the sofa.
Reading culture reaches villages
The concept is spreading beyond urban centres. The Wetterau district recently granted €6,000 to the village community of Burgbracht, a district of Kefenrod, for a bookcase project.
Reading has numerous positive effects: from conveying knowledge and entertainment to promoting health.
Götz, a Wetterau district councillor, called the free service low-threshold, close to home and available around the clock.
Lively use and little surprises
Lisa Wächter, director of the Literary Centre Gießen, sees the special appeal of the cabinets in giving access to people who might not otherwise afford books. The centre runs two bookcases and reports lively use. While every cabinet contains familiar bestsellers and the odd thick tome, Wächter has made discoveries while browsing. She once found a slip with a note from the donor wishing the book to pass through as many hands as possible.
The ground rules
Because different sponsors look after the shelves, there are no uniform rules, but guidelines posted on many cabinets converge on fairness. Users may take books freely and are asked to leave one in return. Books that appeal to a broad audience are especially welcome. Items should be treated gently and placed in good condition. What is wanted is genuine exchange, not the dumping of unwanted books.
