Using the Library


Covid-regulations cf. website in German!


The German, Dutch and Scandinavian Studies Library is a public library; everybody is welcome to use the library, there are no entrance restrictions (except that you are required to leave jackets, bags and backbags in the checkroom). The main purpose of the library is to serve to all persons who conduct research, teach or study at the Department of German Studies and at the Department of European and Comparative Literature and Language Studies (Dutch Studies and Scandinavian Studies divisions) of the University of Vienna.

Reading and working at the Library

You can use a large reading room as well as other study spaces within the library area. All study spaces are equipped with power sockets and Wi-Fi  access. Additionally, there are 8 computers available to search and use the Library’s electronic resources and 3 copiers and one overhead scanner for copying, scanning and printing. The copiers are operated by Best Copy. You can buy copy cards at the Library. The overhead scanner can be used free of charge.


General rules

Please do not talk loudly and consume food in the Library. Drinks are only allowed in spill-proof bottles. Please set your mobile phone to silent mode. If you damage or lose books, you have to replace them.
You are obliged to leave your belongings in the cloakroom. You may not bring your coats, bags, etc. into the Library. Study material and spill-proof bottles are allowed in the Library. You may only carry them in transparent plastic bags.

Find more information about the basic rules for using the Library in our Library Etiquette "Bibliotheks-Knigge" (in German).


Borrowing and reserving:

You can usually borrow books from this special library for at least 7 days – find out more about loan periods under Lending Services.

You can take books kept in the open-shelf area and the reading room directly from the shelves. They cannot be reserved or requested.

You have to request books from the closed stacks (holdings kept in closed stacks, academic theses, Scandinavian studies items) via u:search. They are available for use on the following day at the latest.


Times during which we collect books from the stacks:

  • 7:00 and 14:30 – You can collect the books about 30 minutes after they have been collected from the stacks.
  • Academic theses and items from the Schmidt-Dengler Library (WSD & WSDA) are collected from the stacks once a day and are usually ready to collect one day after you have requested them.