University Library Of Erlangen Nürnberg

University Library of Erlangen-Nuremberg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Nuremberg Historical Sites

Date: 2025-07-03

Introduction

The University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg (Universitätsbibliothek Erlangen-Nürnberg, UB FAU) is a pillar of academic excellence, cultural heritage, and historical significance in Bavaria, Germany. Established in 1743 alongside the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), the library has grown from a specialized theological collection into Bavaria’s largest academic library outside Munich, with approximately 5.4 million volumes. It houses invaluable medieval manuscripts, early printed works, and notable treasures such as the Gumbertus Bible, as well as an internationally renowned collection of Northern European prints and drawings.

Since 1961, the integration of branch libraries in Nuremberg has created a vibrant two-city, multi-campus system, enriching the cultural and academic fabric of both Erlangen and Nuremberg. Visitors are invited to explore not only its extensive resources but also to experience a unique blend of Baroque architecture, modern facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Located near iconic landmarks such as Erlangen’s Schlossgarten and Margravial Palace, and Nuremberg’s Old Town and castle, the library is both a scholarly hub and a cultural monument. This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, nearby attractions, special events, and more to help plan a seamless and enriching visit.

For up-to-date information, consult the University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg website and the FAU history and collections page. (University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg, FAU History and Collections)

Introduction
Founding and Early Development
Expansion and Integration with Nuremberg
Collections and Treasures
Visiting the University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg
Visiting Hours
Admission and Tickets
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Events
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Architectural and Cultural Significance in Nuremberg
Role in Research and International Collaboration
Preservation of Heritage and Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Discover the Historic University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg (Erlangen)
Discover the FAU Library Nuremberg
Discover the Schlossgarten Monument in Erlangen
Summary and Final Tips
References and Official Links

Founding and Early Development

The University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg was established in 1743 with the founding of FAU by Margrave Friedrich von Brandenburg-Bayreuth. Initially focused on theology, law, and philosophy, the library expanded rapidly, acquiring valuable materials from dissolved monasteries and, later, from the closed University of Altdorf in 1818/19. This early growth laid the foundation for its status as a premier academic institution.

Expansion and Integration with Nuremberg

Expansion in 1961, through the incorporation of the Nürnberger Hochschule für Wirtschafts- und Sozialwissenschaften, led to the establishment of branch libraries in Nuremberg, such as the Economic and Social Sciences Branch Library (WSZB) and the Educational Science Branch Library (EZB). This integration fostered a distinctive two-city, multi-campus library system that serves a wide-ranging academic community.

Collections and Treasures

UB FAU’s holdings include approximately 5.4 million volumes, making it the largest academic library in Bavaria outside Munich. The library is home to:

Around 700 medieval and early modern manuscripts, including the Gumbertus Bible
An internationally significant collection of 15th and 16th-century Northern European prints and drawings
141 Egyptian papyruses
A numismatic collection of about 30,000 coins and medals
Over 2,000 portraits
The Trew letter collection, comprising 19,000 letters

These collections are vital for research and represent significant contributions to regional and international cultural heritage.

Visiting the University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg

Visiting Hours

Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed

Note: Branch hours may vary. Always check the official UB FAU website for up-to-date information.

Admission and Tickets

Admission: Free for everyone
Tickets: Not required

Accessibility

Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available
Assistance for visitors with disabilities can be requested at information desks

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Available by appointment, focusing on history, architecture, and collections
Events: Regular exhibitions, workshops, and lectures
Updates: See the UB FAU events page for schedules

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Nuremberg Branches: Centrally located, accessible by public transport. Combine with visits to Nuremberg Castle, Albrecht Dürer’s House, and the Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Erlangen: Explore the old town, Schlossgarten park, and cultural venues.

Architectural and Cultural Significance in Nuremberg

The Nuremberg libraries combine modern design with the city’s historic character, offering advanced study spaces, digital resources, and exhibition areas. Their presence supports cultural events and academic workshops, making them essential to Nuremberg’s academic and cultural life.

Role in Research and International Collaboration

UB FAU underpins FAU’s research activities with robust services in research data management, digital scholarship, and open access publishing. The library’s Open Science Policy fosters knowledge sharing locally and globally, attracting researchers from around the world.

Preservation of Heritage and Community Engagement

The library is dedicated to the preservation of rare manuscripts, historical documents, and art. Public exhibitions, lectures, and participation in city-wide events—such as the Nuremberg Digital Festival—ensure engagement with both academic and general audiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Sundays and public holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free and no tickets are required.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Contact the library in advance.

Q: Is the library accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, facilities include ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: What attractions are nearby in Nuremberg?
A: Nuremberg Castle, Albrecht Dürer’s House, Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and more.

Discover the Historic University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg

Introduction

In Erlangen, the University Library is housed partly within an 18th-century Baroque palace near the Schlossgarten, blending architectural grandeur with academic purpose. It stands alongside other cultural landmarks, such as the Margravial Theater and Botanic Garden, making it central to Erlangen’s cultural identity.

History and Cultural Significance

The library’s Baroque palace setting and its collections—including rare manuscripts and prints by Albrecht Dürer and Matthias Grünewald—underscore its dual role as a scholarly institution and cultural monument.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
  (Check the official website for holiday hours)
Admission: Free
Tours & Exhibitions: Guided tours and special exhibitions available (advance booking may be required)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with elevators and adapted facilities

Highlights

Architecture: Baroque palace interiors and historic reading rooms
Collections: Rare manuscripts, prints, and drawings
Leisure: Proximity to Schlossgarten, library café, and social spaces

Travel Tips

Access: Centrally located, near main train station and public transport
Photography: Allowed in public areas (no flash or tripods); permission required for rare collections
Nearby Attractions: Margravial Theater, Botanic Garden, Erlangen Old Town

Visitor FAQs

Open to public? Yes.
Guided tours? Yes, by advance booking.
Book borrowing? On-site access for visitors; borrowing privileges for university members.
Special events? Regular exhibitions and events; see website.
Parking? Public parking in city center; public transport recommended.

More information: University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg

Discover the FAU Library Nuremberg

Location and Access

Address: Lange Gasse 20, 90403 Nuremberg
Public Transport: Near “Obere Turnstraße” tram stop; well-served by tram and bus
On Foot/Bike: Convenient from city center hotels and attractions

Historical and Architectural Highlights

The Nuremberg branch features a modern architectural style with spacious, light-filled reading rooms and hosts special collections linked to Nuremberg’s academic heritage.

Visiting Hours

Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Verify on the FAU Library Locations & Opening Hours page)

Facilities and Services

Quiet reading rooms, group study areas, computer workstations, Wi-Fi
Over 1 million print volumes, extensive digital resources
Lockers, accessible restrooms, and nearby cafeteria

Events, Exhibitions, and Tours

Regular exhibitions and public lectures
Guided tours available by arrangement (Contact)

Practical Tips

No registration for on-site access; temporary library cards available for borrowing
English-speaking staff; bilingual signage
Photography allowed in public spaces (no flash/tripods); permission for rare items
Maintain quiet; only bottled water allowed

Nearby Attractions

Nuremberg Castle, Old Town, Germanisches Nationalmuseum, and local cafes
Easily combined with other city sightseeing

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible

Visitor FAQs

Visiting hours? See above; check online for updates.
Admission/tickets? Free entry.
Guided tours? Yes, by arrangement.
Temporary borrowing? Available with valid ID.
Accessibility? Yes.

For more: FAU Library Locations & Opening Hours

Discover the Schlossgarten Monument in Erlangen

Overview

Set within Erlangen’s scenic Schlossgarten, the Schlossgarten Monument is a testament to the city’s aristocratic heritage and urban development. The park and monument are popular for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Open: Year-round, dawn to dusk
Admission: Free

Getting There

Tram: Lines 4 and 5
Bus: Multiple city routes
Car: Parking available nearby
From Nuremberg: Well-connected by train and car

Accessibility

Paved paths, ramps, benches, and shaded areas for all visitors

Nearby Attractions

Erlangen Palace (guided tours available)
Botanical Gardens
FAU University Library

Unique Features

Baroque design, tranquil setting, seasonal events, and exhibitions

Visitor FAQs

Entrance fee? None
Hours? Dawn to dusk
Guided tours? Yes, for Erlangen Palace; check city tourism website
Accessibility? Yes, for all paths and facilities

Official info: Erlangen City Tourism

Summary and Final Tips

The University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg is a distinguished institution uniting centuries of academic tradition with modern innovation. Its extensive historical collections, architectural diversity, and commitment to accessibility and community engagement make it a leading destination for researchers, students, and cultural tourists alike.

Highlights include:

Free admission and generous opening hours
Guided tours and exhibitions
Accessibility for all visitors
Proximity to key cultural and historical sites in Erlangen and Nuremberg
Ongoing events and digital resources

For the best experience, consult official resources regularly and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and up-to-date event information.

Plan your visit to discover the rich interplay of history, culture, and learning at the University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg. (University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Tourism, FAU Library Locations)

References and Official Links

University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance (https://ub.fau.de/)
Visiting the Historic University Library of Erlangen-Nürnberg: A Monumental Experience in Bavaria (https://ub.fau.de/)
Visiting the FAU Library in Nuremberg: Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Historical Sites (https://ub.fau.de/en/about-us/locations-opening-hours/)
Visiting the Schlossgarten Monument in Erlangen: History, Tips, and Visitor Information (https://www.erlangen.de/)