Our Libraries
In the United Kingdom


The 87 libraries of the Goethe-Institut are public places. They offer an inspiring atmosphere for exchange and encounter. Around 660,000 analogue and digital media convey an up-to-date image of Germany and promote active engagement with language, culture and society.

Two libraries are located in the United Kingdom, one in London and one in Glasgow.

  • Library in Glasgow

    Our library and information centre in Glasgow's West End is a place for anyone who wants to read and work quietly, find inspiration and meet people. Among other things, we offer a range of events for people interested in German at all language levels, as well as for literary translators. We share our building with our colleagues from the Alliance Française, whose media library can be accessed from our library.

    Lending at the Goethe-Institut Glasgow Photo: Goethe-Institut Glasgow Photo: Goethe-Institut Glasgow

  • Library in London

    Our library in London is located on Exhibition Road in the heart of South Kensington. There are many museums and other cultural institutions nearby, as well as Stein's Berlin restaurant on the ground floor. In addition to a comprehensive media collection, we offer our visitors plenty of space for learning German, reading and experimenting – for example with our interactive sculpture #Seat12.

    Library and sculpture Seat#12 © Jayne Lloyd © Jayne Lloyd

  • German language eLibrary

    Onleihe: The digital library

    Our digital library Onleihe offers access to more than 35,000 German-language media such as e-books, audio books and music, newspapers, magazines and films, free of charge. Anytime, anywhere, free of charge.

    A woman listens to digital media from the Onleihe service and runs past people waiting at the bus stop in the rain. Illustration: Maria Tran Larsen © Goethe-Institut Illustration: Maria Tran Larsen © Goethe-Institut

  • Social Media

    Follow the Goethe-Institut in the United Kingdom on social media. Our channels offer information on language, culture and Germany. Stay up to date!

    Social Media © Canva © Canva