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Bookcase in Evinghoven: reading fun around the clock for everyone!
On June 18, 2025, the Westenergie bookcase in Evinghoven was opened to promote the exchange of literature and create encounters.
Bookcase in Evinghoven: reading fun around the clock for everyone!
In Evinghoven, the love of reading is now being rekindled. The new Westenergie bookcase, which opened yesterday, is now available to all book lovers around the clock. The innovative concept, which was presented by Frithjof Gerstner, Westenergie's municipal manager, makes it possible to store well-read books and pick up new treasures. Mayor Dr. Martin Mertens and the volunteer book sponsors Nicole Hohenberg and Sarah Pargan were also present at the opening.
“Reading not only promotes imagination, but also helps to reduce stress and reduce the risk of dementia,” explained Mertens during his speech. This means that the bookcase not only becomes a place for exchanging literature, but also a meeting place for the community where exchange is encouraged. The book sponsors Hohenberg and Pargan took care of setting up the cupboard in advance and will sort the books regularly.
A place for young and old readers
The bookcase itself is made of weatherproof Corten steel and is equipped with a self-closing door mechanism. Special attention was paid to the lower compartment, which is designed to be child-friendly so that even the smallest readers can easily access their books. Another Westenergie bookcase was also opened in Weiler near Boppard, where mayor Andreas Mayer and regional manager Florian Schmidt praised the importance of such initiatives. In Weiler it was also pointed out how important sharing things is for the village community.
Over 377 such bookcases have now been set up throughout Westenergie's core area. The company is not only involved in the education sector, but also focuses on projects in the areas of sport, climate protection and social integration. Thanks to the bookcase model, reading is now made even more accessible. “A nice place to strengthen the neighborhood and bring people together,” said Gerstner.
A role model for Cologne
The Cologne Community Foundation is similarly proud with its “Eselsohr” project. Public, weatherproof bookcases have been set up throughout Cologne. Citizens have the opportunity to post books they have read and discover new ones. This system is supported by numerous local initiatives, civic associations and schools. Requests for larger book donations are welcome as long as there is space. This shows that sharing knowledge and stories is very important in many areas.
The idea is not only innovative, but also sensible. This means that citizens can immerse themselves in the adventure of reading without much effort. Avid readers are invited to do their part to put old books in the bookcases and discover new stories. At the same time, the community foundation appeals: “Please do not hand in any tattered or soiled books!”
In a time when encounters often take place digitally, these bookcases offer a tangible space for exchange and the joy of reading. Regardless of whether in Evinghoven or Cologne, the principle remains the same: reading is for everyone and sharing literature enriches social interaction.