We live in a knowledge society. It has never been so easy to get information - and at the same time, never harder. The internet, with its infinite amount of data, can occasionally be overwhelming, making accessing facts cumbersome if not impossible. This is one of many arguments in favor of printed books. In terms of media selection, Berlin's Zentral- und Landesbibliothek (ZLB) is breaking all records: with 3.5 million media and 1.5 million visitors per year – its collection is divided between two locations – it is the largest public library in Germany.

The Amerika Gedenkbibliothek on Hallesches Ufer - nicknamed the "Shop Window of the West" - is a long building with a simple square facade. It was built on the model of U.S. public libraries, whose characteristic feature is a hands-free system. Those looking for novels and books on the arts and humanities will find what they are looking for there. For the rest of us, there's a branch on Breite Straße in Mitte that offers everything on the natural sciences, medicine ,and economics.

But whether in Kreuzberg or Mitte, a visit to the ZLB offers a little time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's pleasantly quiet there - at least sometimes, because the ZLB's program doesn't end with book lending, it's just the beginning! Digital story hours for kids (also available on Youtube), homework help, Gaming Friday or events such as lectures on current events and rhetoric tips are all a part of the trip to the library. And, as part of the #SoAGB, you can even get your fill of community and entertainment on Sundays, with laughter yoga on the lawn, for example. The library of today is an immersive experience for the whole family.