Libraries

The 87 libraries of the Goethe-Institut are public places. They offer an inspiring atmosphere for exchange and encounter. Around 800,000 analogue and digital media convey an up-to-date image of Germany and promote active engagement with language, culture and society.

Goethe-Institut Belgrad - Library Photo: Danilo Andjus

About our work

In many different projects, we work together with partners from civil society, especially from the library, media and information sector. The topics range from artificial intelligence to reading promotion, from environmental protection to cultural heritage.

The libraries are also open spaces for experimentation. They connect Germany and the world through inspiration and innovation.

Voices about our libraries worldwide

Our libraries are places of encounter, exchange and learning. Here, users tell us what the libraries of the Goethe-Institut mean to them.

Insights into the Library Work

Streamingtipps

We have compiled a fantastic selection of German films and series for you to enjoy that are currently available in the media libraries of the public broadcasters and on various streaming services in Germany.

Streamingtipps Seite © Goethe-Institut / Tobias Schrank

Digital library

The Onleihe is Goethe-Institut’s digital library (eLibrary). About 20,000 German language eBooks, audio books, movies, materials for German language learners, magazines and newspapers are available for downloading from the Onleihe.

A woman listens to digital media from the Onleihe service and runs past people waiting at the bus stop in the rain. Illustration: Maria Tran Larsen © Goethe-Institut

Reading made easy

When "easy reading texts" are too easy: For learners of German from levels B2 and C1, we recommend e-books from our digital library, the Onleihe.

Laptop Illustration: Maria Tran Larsen © Goethe-Institut

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