North City Library

The Nordstadt Library is located in the StadtGemeinschaftsHaus Nord and can be discovered

while shopping on Engelbosteler Damm in Hannover’s Nordstadt neighborhood. Media Variety

With approximately 12,500 items, we offer a well-curated selection for all age groups. In addition to picture books for the youngest children, we have nonfiction books and stories for all ages and reading levels. For children and families, we also have Tonies, children’s movies, CDs, and comic books, among other items. For adults, we offer a carefully curated selection of novels, crime novels, thrillers, and nonfiction books on various topics, as well as foreign-language literature and an attractive selection of magazines. In addition to our regular opening hours, patrons can access our 24-hour digital library with e-media from home.

What is the StadtgemeinschaftsHaus Nord?

With the StadtGemeinschaftsHaus Nord, a novel model project for social-space-oriented community work is taking shape in Hannover’s Nordstadt district. The Nordstadt Library is being transformed, in collaboration with the Department for Senior Citizens, the AWO, and civil society partners, into an open, collaborative space—a place for connection, education, and participation. The concept was developed through a participatory process with the active involvement of the citizens’ initiative “Books for All.” In addition to the library, a meeting place is being created for seniors, intercultural groups, families, and the neighborhood. This will create an intergenerational space for learning and interaction that brings together people of different backgrounds and age groups.

Specific plans include, among other things, open community spaces, creative groups, and intercultural programs—such as storytelling cafés—as well as low-threshold counseling and support services. As an educational partner, the City Library is tailoring its services at the StadtGemeinschaftsHaus Nord specifically to children, families, daycare centers, and schools in the neighborhood; plans also include low-threshold programs for senior women (such as cell phone classes) and open consultation hours on digital topics. Participation is being strengthened through multilingual counseling, intercultural programs, and volunteer engagement.

Phased Renovation: What Has Already Been Completed—and What's Next

During the first phase of renovation (late 2025/January 2026), the gallery was renovated to make the library area more attractive while also providing space for the Senior Citizens’ Department. A sliding door allows both areas to be flexibly separated from one another. On the ground floor, the future space for the Workers’ Welfare Association (AWO) was cleared and separated by a glass wall; in addition, the entrance area was redesigned so that visitors enter the building directly into the communal area. The Senior Citizens’ Department has already moved in and is gradually launching its first programs; the AWO began its course program in March 2026.
 

© City of Hannover

© City of Hannover

New participatory process starting in May—residents’ ideas and suggestions for the design of the community center are expressly welcome

At the end of May 2026, the second phase of renovation will begin with the installation of an elevator to ensure barrier-free access to the gallery and the technical preparations for unstaffed opening hours. A pilot phase is planned to run concurrently; afterward, the experiences will be evaluated jointly to make any necessary adjustments. At the same time—running alongside the pilot phase—another participatory process will begin, focusing on children between the summer and fall breaks. During this process, ideas and requests from neighborhood residents are expressly encouraged and can be submitted at any time in person on-site or via email to nordstadtbibliothek@hannover-stadt.de.

Children's monthly puzzle

The latest monthly children’s puzzle is available for download below. Just print it out, fill it in, and drop it in the mailbox at your local library or send it to the email address provided. Of course, there are prizes to be won: books, books, books... because reading is fun! The winners will be notified.