Guided tour: History and architecture of the ZB

The Zentralbibliothek Zürich has been the cantonal, city and university library of Zurich for over 100 years. With over 7.5 million items and around 240 employees, it is one of the largest libraries in Switzerland. It also offers a wide range of databases and digital full texts. Half a million people visit the ZB every year and make use of its diverse services.

During the tour, we will show you the four parts of the ZB building: the old building from 1917 (architect Hermann Fietz) serves as the main entrance and houses the special collections. The public wing from the 1990s (architects Alex and Heinz Eggimann) includes the large reading room and the underground book storage facilities. The administration wing with its offices stretches along Seilergraben. The Gothic preacher's choir houses the music department, the map collection and the «treasure chamber».

Participation is free of charge. Please register in advance.