New bookcase in Mollardgasse: A meeting point for everyone!

New bookcase in Mollardgasse: A meeting point for everyone!

in Mollardgasse, opposite the Therese SIP park and near the Neville Bridge, a new open bookcase recently opened its doors. This initiative, which was launched by Karl Lampret, has proven itself at the neighborhood award, even if it did not receive an award for it. District head Markus Rumelhart was convinced of the concept that promotes neighborly exchange with a simple “taking and giving” books. This is a converted telephone booth, which is equipped with an inner shelf, and has been well received by residents since the official opening on June 20, 2025. wien.gv.at reports that the location was chosen especially because of the high frequency in the summer months.

The wealth of ideas of Karl Lampret goes beyond the opening of the closet. For autumn he plans a creative campaign for the colorful design of the bookcase with children from the neighborhood. The vision is clear: to create an inviting meeting point for all book lovers where the focus is on the exchange of stories and knowledge. The use of the bookcase is very easy: everyone can borrow books at any time or set their own specimens without having to worry about return patients.

another book highlight in Mariahilf

This bookcase is not the only one of its kind in Mariahilf. As early as 2024, a similar project was launched in the Schmalzhof temple park, which is also part of the Mariahilfer neighborhood initiative "with each other in Mariahilf". As can be read in meinbezirk.at , this trend in the neighborhood could further strengthen the importance of community and the exchange of knowledge.

In the context of open bookcases, there is also an international interest in such initiatives. Similar models can be found in Berlin, for example, where public book cupboards are available in different versions - be it as a closet, old telephone booth or weatherproof shelf. They promote the sharing idea and rely on mutual helpfulness and a basis of trust. If you borrow a book, you should put your own book back after reading to not only use the offer, but also to actively become part of the joint project. Information on this can be found on berlin.de .

The opening of the new bookcase in Mollardgasse once again shows how important it is to share community and share information and stories. Especially at a time when many people are confronted by personal experiences, such as the loss of a loved one or health challenges, with topics such as mortality, such initiatives offer a space for encounter and exchange that provides more than just books.