In order to be available as a place of learning and for the use and lending of media for as long as possible, the library at all three locations will be open without staff from the late afternoon in future. The concept is called "Open Library" and ensures that users can visit the library even when there is no specialist staff on site.
It will initially start at the Max-Ophüls-Platz location. Opening hours will be significantly extended in time for the start of the 2026 summer semester. For the first time, it will now also be possible to visit the library on Saturdays.
Use of the library during open library hours is only possible for members of Fachhochschule Dortmund.
Important: Lending keys at the gate
As no automatic door can be installed at the entrance to the library at the Max-Ophüls-Platz location for reasons of monument protection, you must lend a key with transponder against signature at the gate after the end of service hours (see below for explanation). This will allow you to unlock the library. If you are already in the library at the end of service hours and would like to stay, you do not need to collect a key. Groups of several people only need one key; one person from the group then takes responsibility by signing for it.
After your visit, simply close the door behind you; it is not necessary to lock it. You return the key at the gate.
Please note that keys are only issued to members of Fachhochschule Dortmund.