The Schaffhausen City Library, known locally as Bibliotheken Schaffhausen, is a true gem nestled in the heart of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. This institution is more than just a repository of books; it is a testament to the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a literature enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore a tranquil and intellectually stimulating environment, Schaffhausen City Library offers something for everyone.
The history of the Schaffhausen City Library is as fascinating as the volumes it houses. The library's origins can be traced back to the Benedictine monastery of Allerheiligen, founded in 1049. This monastery boasted a library and a scriptorium, with the earliest surviving book catalog dating back to this period. Around 70 manuscripts from the 11th and 12th centuries still exist today, offering a glimpse into the medieval scholastic world.
However, the Reformation brought significant changes. The monastery was dissolved, and its library collection was transferred to the Reformed clergy, forming the basis of what would become the Ministerial Library in 1547. This collection, heavily focused on theological works, remained under ecclesiastical care and is now managed as a deposit by the Schaffhausen City Library.
Recognizing the need for a more publicly accessible collection, a group of Schaffhausen citizens established a civic library in 1636, inspired by the Zurich Civic Library. Initially housed in the Kreuzsaal of the former Allerheiligen monastery, the library moved to Rheinstrasse in 1792. By the early 19th century, it had become the property of the city and was officially named the Stadtbibliothek, or City Library.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the library's user base and responsibilities expanded, necessitating several relocations. In 1829, it moved to Herrenacker and later settled in the Korn- und Kabishaus near the Munster tower in 1923. The building underwent significant renovations between 1993 and 1995, including the addition of an underground magazine to accommodate the growing collection.
The Schaffhausen City Library fulfills a dual role. It serves as a scientific and educational library with a comprehensive collection of historical texts, manuscripts, incunabula, and specialized scientific literature. Additionally, it acts as a cantonal library, collecting literature on local and regional history despite lacking a legal mandate for compulsory copies.
The library is divided into two main branches: the historical collection at Münsterplatz and the modern, public library at Agnesenschütte. The latter offers a wide range of popular science and entertaining literature, children's and young adult books, and audiovisual media. Together, these branches cater to both scholarly research and public entertainment, making the library a versatile institution.
The Schaffhausen City Library and the Ministerial Library it manages boast an impressive array of historical materials. Among the treasures are 160 medieval manuscripts, including the 7th-century Vita s. Columbae, and 260 incunabula, or early printed books from before 1500. The library also holds manuscripts and letters from the Reformation period and the 18th century, such as the papers of Schaffhausen reformer Johann Conrad Ulmer and the legacies of the Müller brothers, Johannes and Johann Georg.
Efforts are ongoing to digitize these valuable collections, making them accessible through online portals like e-rara for rare and valuable prints and e-codices for medieval manuscripts. This digital initiative ensures that the library's treasures are preserved for future generations while being accessible to a global audience.
The Agnesenschütte branch of the Schaffhausen City Library is a modern, public library designed to meet the needs of the community. It offers a welcoming space for self-study, social interaction, and intellectual exchange. The library's collection includes over 51,500 media items, ranging from popular science books to children's literature and multimedia resources.
Library membership is free, and a personal user card grants access to both the Agnesenschütte and Münsterplatz branches. An online catalog allows users to search the collections of both libraries, with all books and media from 1985 onwards, as well as many older items, listed for easy reference.
The Schaffhausen City Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it is a cultural hub that fosters learning, creativity, and community engagement. Whether you're delving into the rich historical archives or enjoying the latest bestsellers, the library offers a unique and enriching experience for all visitors.
In conclusion, the Schaffhausen City Library stands as a beacon of knowledge and culture in the picturesque town of Schaffhausen. Its blend of historical significance and modern amenities makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the literary and cultural heritage of this charming Swiss region.
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