This book, as promised on the back cover, is a comprehensive overview of libraries in Germany. It is very suitable for people who want to compare the situation of libraries in Germany to their own national context or for those who wish to work in German libraries. Having read this book, I feel that I have a reasonable understanding of the tenor of libraries in Germany and could visit or work there with confidence.
Statistical information is readily available at the front of the book, and then a broad history of libraries in Germany is discussed. The book describes the education system of Germany and how libraries serve these systems. The German secondary schooling system is quite complex, providing specialisations for students after the age of 10. This information is then used to discuss the context for German school libraries.
The discussion turns to the variety of libraries in Germany, who these libraries serve and their contexts. The varieties of libraries include the German National Library, which licenses bibliographic data under a Creative Commons license; the State Library of Berlin which has a focus on Prussian heritage; the Bavarian State Library in Munich which has a comprehensive collection of periodicals; Central Subject Libraries for Science and Technology, Medicine, Economics, which supplement the National Library, State libraries, including former court libraries, are now research libraries. These assist in legal deposit, digitisation projects and special interest collections. I was surprised at how the historical context of Germany has led to manifold separate systems, which work in concert.
University libraries, special and technical libraries, local public libraries and mobile libraries are also discussed. Public libraries are supported by 24 State Service Centres in planning, redevelopment and meeting professional standards. Thousands of public church libraries are maintained by the church as part of service to the community. In particular, special interest areas of public libraries, the largest sector, are discussed, including the role of libraries in promoting functional literacy in German. Key players like major book sellers are also introduced.
The text is arranged in two columns per page. As a result, the font size is rather small, particularly in diagrams. However, due to its magazine-like layout and lavish photographs, it rarely feels dense to read. The book is also thoroughly indexed.
As its title suggests, this volume also provides a look at future directions for libraries in Germany. It discusses current initiatives and innovations, including digitisation, cultural archiving and collaboration with European Union activities such as Europeana. This section provides insight into future trends that are applicable throughout the world.
This is recommended for general use, as an introduction to a wide range of libraries, suitable for public and academic library collections, and as a good read for librarians interested in combining professional work and interests with travel.