German Court Upholds Sunday Openings for NRW Libraries

The Federal Administrative Court ruled that public libraries in North Rhine-Westphalia can remain open on Sundays, recognizing their cultural significance.

The Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig dismissed a challenge by the Verdi union to restrict Sunday openings for public libraries in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW).
The court upheld a 2019 NRW regulation allowing libraries to open up to six hours on Sundays and holidays to fulfill their cultural role.
Libraries were deemed comparable to theaters and museums, qualifying for exceptions to labor laws prohibiting Sunday work.
Modern libraries in NRW serve as multifunctional community hubs, offering diverse services beyond traditional book lending, such as tool rentals, creative spaces, and social gathering areas.
With 25 million annual visitors, public libraries in NRW attract more people than Germany’s top-tier football leagues combined, reflecting their growing societal importance.