Solothurn Central Library

The Solothurn Central Library fulfils the tasks of a cantonal, municipal and regional library. As a cantonal library, it manages, maintains and communicates a significant part of the historical heritage of the canton and city of Solothurn. As a municipal and regional library, it offers non-fiction and entertainment media for use by the regional population and creates cultural and social added value as a place to stay, learn and meet without any obligation to consume.

A large selection of fiction, non-fiction books, audio books and films are available in the open access area. Media can also be ordered from the extensive magazine stock. Access to e-books, e-journals, e-papers, video streaming and e-encyclopaedias via the e-media entry page expands the range on offer.

The reading room is a place for concentrated work and daily newspapers and a wide range of journals are available in the Zetter café.

Historical holdings and Solodorensia
The Central Library has inherited an extensive collection of prints and manuscripts of supra-regional importance from its predecessor institutions. Its mission as a cantonal library is to collect publications relating to the canton of Solothurn (Solodorensia). These are publications about the canton, its history and politics, culture and economy as well as about individual places or personalities. The Solodorensia also include publications written by people from Solothurn or published in the canton of Solothurn.

Guided tours
Training courses and guided tours are offered for children, young people and adults. Depending on the possibilities, the content is adapted to the wishes.

Offers for children and families

Children, young people and families meet in the children and youth centre. It also promotes media and reading skills, multilingualism, integration, knowledge and learning.

Offers for schools
Teachers and other professionals who work with families, children and young people are supported with special services.

Good to know
With a library card from the Central Library, the entire public area can be used from Monday to Saturday between 07:00 and 22:00 (Open Library).