Universitätsbibliothek Leipzig (University Library of Leipzig), Leipzig

The University Library of Leipzig, also known as Bibliotheca Albertina, serves as the central library of the University of Leipzig and stands as one of the oldest university libraries in Germany. Established in 1542 during the Reformation by the then Rector Caspar Borner, the library was founded with the support of Moritz, Duke of Saxony, who donated the land and buildings of the dissolved Dominican friary of Saint Paul in Leipzig. Initially housed in a former monastery, the library started with a modest collection of 1,000 books and approximately 1,500 manuscripts, gathered from various secularized monasteries in Leipzig, Saxony, and Thuringia.

As the library’s collection grew, particularly due to the acquisition of the Goethe collection from publisher Salomon Hirzel and the rise in book production during the 19th century, the need for a larger space became apparent. In response, a new library building was designed by Arwed Rossbach, and construction was completed on October 24, 1891. The new structure, named Bibliotheca Albertina in honor of King Albert of Saxony, was a magnificent example of Neo-Renaissance architecture.

However, during World War II, the main building suffered severe damage from air raids on April 6, 1945, resulting in the loss of approximately 42,000 volumes, some of which are now held in Russian libraries. Despite the destruction, the catalogs and most of the collection had been safely relocated. Post-war reconstruction was delayed due to financial constraints, but major restoration began after German reunification in 1994. The extensive work, including rebuilding and clearing ruins, was completed in 2002, restoring the façade to its original design.

Bibliotheca Albertina is the main building of the University Library, which has 15 locations. It serves as a hub for media acquisition, interlibrary loans, and technical services like bookbinding and restoration. The library's collection includes over 5.5 million volumes, with 8,700 manuscripts, 3,600 incunabula, 25,000 prints from the 16th century, and around 6,500 journals. About 3.5 million items are in storage, while the rest are accessible in three reading rooms. Despite its turbulent history, Bibliotheca Albertina remains a key academic and cultural center in Leipzig.