Struggles persist with the funding of Staucha's library - Struggles with financial issues persist at Sodann library in Staucha
The Peter Sodann Library, a unique cultural institution housing a significant collection of East German literature, is currently grappling with financial challenges in Meißen, Saxony. The library's two employees are funded solely through donations, a situation described as "living by the skin of their teeth."
In an unusual circumstance, no public library in Saxony receives institutional funding from the state. The Peter Sodann Library also lacks funding from the federal government or the Free State of Saxony. As a non-profit registered cooperative, the library has some additional earnings from a used bookstore, but it's not enough to make a significant difference.
The supervisory board member, Bernd Pawlowski, has expressed concerns about the lack of funding, stating that a small, steady support of 50,000 to 100,000 euros per year is needed to create two jobs at minimum wage level.
Engaging with local and regional government bodies to advocate for recognition and public funding could be crucial. The library's DDR (East German) books collection, a valuable cultural heritage, could help in lobbying for such support.
Another strategy is applying for cultural and heritage grants from foundations focused on preserving East German history. The library's status as a cultural heritage institution might make it eligible for such funding.
Collaborative projects with academic institutions specializing in DDR studies could provide both financial support and increased visibility. This could include digitization projects, exhibitions, or joint events.
Community engagement through events and fundraising could also generate revenue. Organizing exhibitions, lectures, and book fairs centered on DDR history can raise public awareness and attract donations.
Seeking media and public attention could spur interest and pressure policymakers to provide support. The library's unique status and collection, housed in a historic manor, is a compelling story for PR.
The Saxon Ministry of Culture acknowledges the remarkable collection of books by Peter Sodann but states that he did not act on behalf of the state. Since Sodann's death last year, the library faces the question of what's next. A project funding under certain conditions is theoretically possible for the Peter Sodann Library.
The financial struggles have led to insufficient funds for staff to continue cataloging and processing books. The library was started by Peter Sodann during the Wende in 1990 and moved to Rittergut Staucha in 2012. Now, the library's future hangs in the balance, and a multipronged approach combining advocacy for public funding, cultural grants, partnerships, and community engagement is essential to secure its future and preserve its DDR collections.
[1] No public library in Saxony receives institutional funding. (Ministry of Culture, Saxony) [2] The library qualifies as a cultural heritage institution. (Cultural Foundation for East German History)
- The library, despite being a cultural heritage institution, currently relies entirely on donations for its two employees' funding, a situation that might be alleviated with a small, steady financial support from the government or relevant foundations focused on preserving East German history.
- Aware of its remarkable collection and the library's unique status, the Saxon Ministry of Culture acknowledges the possibility of project funding under certain conditions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community engagement to secure the library's future and preservation of its DDR collections.
