Berlin plans to house ZLB library in Alexanderplatz Galeria building

The Berlin Senate and Commerz Real have signed a letter of intent to transform the Galeria department store building at Alexanderplatz into a combined commercial and cultural hub. The project aims to relocate the Zentral- und Landesbibliothek (ZLB) to this central location, consolidating its currently split sites.

Under the proposed plan, the ZLB would occupy approximately 43,000 square meters, with 28,000 square meters dedicated to public space. The remaining 14,000 square meters would continue to be used for retail and gastronomy. Commerz Real has committed to extensively renovating and modernizing the building by 2030 to accommodate the library.

The initiative is intended to revitalize Alexanderplatz, which has faced challenges with vacancies and urban development. By introducing a major public institution, officials hope to transform the area from a mere transit point into a valuable urban space. Negotiations regarding specific terms and financing models are expected to continue through October.