About Us

As a large general and academic library, the ZHB has been providing literature and information for research and teaching, study and work, leisure and entertainment since 1951. Our holdings and services are aimed at catering to the interests of a broad public and meet the needs of students and lecturers alike.

The wide range of media in various subject areas – print and digital media – is supplemented by valuable historical holdings and special collections, which the ZHB owes to its predecessor libraries, the Bürgerbibliothek (from 1812) and the Kantonsbibliothek (from 1832).

Most of the media holdings are stored in the Swiss Cooperative Storage Library in Büron. The latest media, including books, magazines, illustrated documents, audio books, CD-ROMs as well as electronic media and informational resources, are made availalbe at our locations as freely accessible holdings. In addition to customized courses, training sessions and guided tours, the ZHB regularly offers exhibitions and cultural events.

The ZHB is supported by the Canton of Lucerne and is affiliated with the Department of Education and Culture.

The following information refers to the holdings of the four ZHB libraries at the Sempacherstrasse, the University/PH building, the HSLU – Business and the HSLU – Computer Science. 

Do you like our libraries as much as we do? Become part of our "Freundeskreis" – Our Friends have been providing us with advice and financial support since 1973. They have enabled us to purchase valuable acquisitions that have enriched our collections and improved access to education and knowledge at what is the largest library in Central Switzerland.

The special events run by the Friends guarantee a unique insight into what goes on behind the scenes at the library as well as exclusive offers, trips, and audiences with cultural artists.

Interested? For more information please contact us.