Schwaebisch Gmuend City Library

The way to the library leads through the idyllic Spitalhof (hospital courtyard) where an Alemannic timber-framed construction from 1434 awaits the visitor. Between 1989-1994 the former hospital's administrative building was reconstructed to comply with its status as a historical monument, yet also to be suitable for its modern usage as a library. Thick, old wooden beams and supports stand next to a glazed elevator and steel joists. Historical elements such as wooden-planked rooms, wall paintings and wicker work with brick clay filling remain preserved.

Within this special ambience of the city library, around 100,000 forms of media are available to borrow: novels, non-fiction, specialist literature,  children's books, literature for young people, CDs, CD-ROMS, DVDs, videos, cassettes, maps for city tours and bike/walking trails, maps, magazines and daily newspapers including the “International Herald Tribune” and the weekly "Time" magazine.

This selection includes around 2,500 items in foreign languages, with a focus on English-language literature, as well as books in French, Spanish, Italian, Greek, Turkish and Russian. At the library, games can be played and CDs (on rotation) listened to. In addition to this, work areas with internet (at cost) 1 PC with word processing and a PC with a selection of games for children are available.

Competent personnel are happy to help with all enquiries.