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Cologne is planning Ebertplatz, the largest open-air library in Europe!
Hans-Jürgen Greve is planning to transform Ebertplatz in Cologne into the largest open-air library in Europe and promotes volunteer work.
Cologne is planning Ebertplatz, the largest open-air library in Europe!
Imagine Ebertplatz in Cologne transformed into the largest open-air library in Europe! This bold plan was hatched by Hans-Jürgen Greve, a 61-year-old architect with a passion for urban planning. He began designing weatherproof bookcases for public spaces 18 years ago and has now installed over 1,300 of these treasure chests all over Germany, 65 of them in Cologne alone. Greve also organizes cultural events around these bookcases through his “Neuer Raum Foundation”. But it's not just a question of reading material; it's about redesigning an entire place.
Greve's vision for Ebertplatz includes several pavilions that would be up to three stories high and could hold an impressive million books. Each building is structured by theme so readers can browse the crime house, children's book house or love house. But that's not all: Ebertplatz should also serve as a center for volunteer work, a place where citizens come together to exchange ideas, meet each other and actively shape city life.
A place of meeting and integration
Did you know that only 25% of Cologne's population works on a voluntary basis? Compared to other cities, this is very little. With his concept, Greve wants to increase this value and create a feeling of togetherness. Ebertplatz should become a place designed by the citizens themselves. A free-floating roof made of Makrolon, which spans an area of 150 m x 75 m, is not only an architectural highlight, but also an approach to making the space usable regardless of the weather. The estimated costs of around 10 million euros are to be covered by private donations and gifts.
Another interesting aspect is the involvement of citizens in the project. Greve is aiming to establish an independent foundation that will put the implementation in the hands of the citizens of Cologne. Residents in many parts of Cologne have already shown that they can revitalize public spaces with creativity and commitment. Everyone can contribute to the success of this project!
Public bookcases on the map
As it turns out, the idea of transforming Ebertplatz into an open-air library is characterized by promising approaches. If you would like to find out more about Greve's call for the urbanization of Ebertplatz, take a look at the offer from Cologne City Gazette. For the list of all public bookcases visit Reading hours.