Berlin's Central Library Cuts Services Following Budget Reductions

The ZLB announces staff layoffs, reduced programs, and potential site closure after a €2.2 million budget cut.

The Zentral- und Landesbibliothek Berlin (ZLB) will eliminate 30 of its 300 positions due to recent budget cuts imposed by the Berlin Senate.
Service reductions include limited literature research assistance, fewer book retrievals, and a scaled-back event schedule, particularly for children and youth programs.
The library will pause cataloging historical collections and halt the hiring of new apprentices for the foreseeable future.
General Director Volker Heller warned of significant operational setbacks and potential closure of the Berlin City Library if further cuts occur.
The ZLB, which serves approximately 1.2 million users annually across two locations, must save €2.2 million this year from its €30 million core budget.