ABSTRACT
This entry discusses the role and status of German libraries, archives, and museums, with a focus on the two decades following the Reunification of Germany. Although the emphasis is on contemporary trends and issues, a short historical overview is provided. Major topics include: library legislation, public, school, and research libraries and programs for professional education as well as archival science and archival institutions (national, state, and local). There is also a discussion of museology and profiles of major museum in range of areas including archaeology, fine arts, national and local history, natural history, and science and technology. Digital projects are also discussed as are numerous cooperative efforts among libraries.
