At Library Brunssum it’s not just about books: come and see for yourself!

At Rumpenerstraat, adjacent to Rombouts college, you find the library of Brunssum. Here, you’ll not only find loaded book shelves, but also plenty of options to learn, create and meet fellow Brunssumers. From cosy reading corners to instructive workshops and events, at the library there is always something going on!

We talk to Egid van Houtem, managing director of Library Brunssum. With a background in cultural studies and an entrepreneurial mind he explains the new course of the library.

“The library is in transition”, Egid starts. “The traditional image of a library with rows of books is transforming into a meeting place where people come together, learn and share experiences. In the past 5 years, that development has gained momentum. Partly due to the branch itself, always monitoring where its strengths lie. But the covid pandemic has also played an important role.”

Free digital support

One of the new additions in the library is the Information Desk Digital Government. “Here, people are welcome with questions about digital government services, from social security to student loans. They are helped in person by library personnel”, says Egid. “During walk-in consultation, we are joined by several partners. For Brunssum, these are parties that can assist with numerous practical issues in the social domain.”

Pssst... did you know that the Information Desk Digital Government is free and that you don’t need to be a member of the library? Simply walk in.

Fun and instructive activities

Library Brunssum organizes all kinds of activities and events for all ages. From language cafés to film screenings and heritage projects. Egid continues: “A good example is ‘Tell your story’ where local people talk about their own history and bring photos and mementos to the library. Whether it is anecdotes about long gone pubs, history of the mines or exhibitions of clubs and artists, being a public place for the local community is also one of the functions of the library.”

In addition, special attention is given to involving young families. “The programme 'Brunssum Vital Parent cafés' focuses on the wellbeing of parents and children. We offer various workshops and lectures, from dealing with emotions to happy family dinners and adolescents behind the scenes”, says Egid.

Pssst... did you know that a library membership in Brunssum is free until the age of 25? In this way, the library encourages young people to remain a member as long as possible.

Come and have a look

For anyone not having visited the library yet, Egid has an invitation: “Our library has so much more to offer than just books. It is a community centre, easily accessible, where everyone is welcome to explore, learn and relax. Whether you like reading or not, there is something for everyone. From inspiring stories and social debates to cosy coffee moments and quiet study desks.”

Read also: 3 things to do in Library Brunssum (you didn’t know yet)

“As a library we are also open to your ideas and wishes”, says Egid. “Do come and tell us if you have a suggestion. We’d love to get into contact with the people of Brunssum about their ideal library. In that way, it can become an inspirational place to work and meet for the people that live here. That is our ambition!”

Stay up-to-date

Want to stay informed about all that is happening in Library Brunssum? Check out the website regularly and follow us on Instagram or Facebook for the latest updates. And don’t forget to pay us a visit from time to time. Library Brunssum welcomes you, ready to inspire, inform and connect!