- What if you cannot come to the library during staffed service hours?
- What is not available during the Open Library hours?
- How can I return items when there is no staff on site?
- Where can I report an emergency?
- What data is stored when using the Open Library?
- Would you like to give us feedback? Was your question not answered?
General information
What is an Open Library?
An Open Library allows access to the library even when no staff are present. This enables longer opening hours. A valid library card is required to use the service.
When does the Open Library start?
The Open Library starts on 10 November 2025.
How can you use the Open Library?
Please exchange your library card for a new one at the ServicePoint. The exchange is free of charge. The Open Library access technology only works with the new card.
If your library card looks like the one in the picture, then you already have the new one.
New opening hours
How long is the library open?
New service hours:
- Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Until 21 November 2025, we will be on available Monday to Thursday until 7 p.m. and Friday until 6 p.m. so that you can conveniently exchange your library card.
Open Library
Access only with a valid library card
- Monday–Friday: 7 a.m.–9 a.m. & 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
When do you have to leave the library?
You must leave the library at the end of opening hours. The lights are switched off automatically after closing time.
Access
How do you access the library during Open Library hours?
During Open Library hours, scan your new library card at the terminal in front of the library door. The entrance door will then open automatically.
How do you get a new library card?
If you are already registered with us, please come to the library’s ServicePoint with your library card and photo ID. Minors also need a new declaration of consent from their legal guardians.
If you are not yet registered with us, please use our registration form and then come to the ServicePoint in the library.
If you currently use a library card from another library, you will receive the new library card in addition. It is no longer possible to use library cards from other libraries.
ServicePoint
When will the service hours change?
Our current service hours will remain in effect until 21 November 2025 in order to meet the increased demand for library card replacements. After that, we will be available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What if you cannot come to the library during staffed service hours?
Please contact us by phone under +49 40 30601-2845 or by email at bibliothek@tuhh.de if you are unable to come to the library during staffed opening hours. We will work out an appointment together to address your request.
Borrowing and returning items
What is not available during the Open Library hours?
As before, there are restrictions on items that can be borrowed directly from the ServicePoint: headsets, locker keys, USB sticks, USB adapters, puzzles.
How can you return items when there is no staff on site?
Items obtained via the ServicePoint can be returned via the return box at the self-checkout machines.
Media items can still be returned at the self-checkout machines and then placed on the white return shelf.
Media items from the SUB Hamburg can be returned via the return box in the entrance area.
Safety
Where can you report an emergency?
You can reach the police by calling 110.
You can reach the fire brigade and ambulance service by calling 112.
If you have any technical problems, please contact the central reception desk in Building O by calling +49 40 30601-3333 (staffed around the clock).
There is a public telephone at the ServicePoint in the library entrance area with these numbers stored in its memory.
Data Privacy
What data is stored when using the Open Library?
During Open Library hours, video surveillance is in operation and recordings are stored for 72 hours. In addition, the time at which you entered the library with your library card is stored for one week.
The complete privacy policy for the library can be found at https://www.tub.tuhh.de/en/data-privacy/.
Other
Would you like to give us feedback? Was your question not answered?
Please feel free to contact us at the ServicePoint or by email at bibliothek@tuhh.de.