Library of Generations

The Bibliothek der Generationen (formerly Library of the Elderly) is an artistic remembrance project initiated by Sigrid Sigurdsson, which is filled with life by over 200 authors. With a duration of 105 years (2000-2105), the project is designed to span generations.

The authors of the Library of Generations include individuals, institutions, groups and initiatives who write about many different topics. The contributions cover a broad spectrum, ranging from autobiographical works to artistic contributions and scientific presentations.

Since 2004, the Library of Generations has been part of the permanent exhibition of the Historisches Museum Frankfurt. It is part of the work complex of Sigrid Sigurdsson's "Open Archives". On the occasion of the special exhibition "The Memory of Art. History and Memory in Contemporary Art" (2000/2001), Sigrid Sigurdsson and the museum curator at the time, Kurt Wettengl, were looking for 100 people who are connected to the history of the city of Frankfurt am Main and who should create a biographical, historical or scientific review of the past century. Two more authors are added each year. In the end, the Library of Generations will consist of 200 contributions and cover a period of more than 200 years of remembered history.

The aim of the project is to get to know the history of the city of Frankfurt am Main from different perspectives and to give future generations the opportunity to engage with the memories and reports of their elders.

The Library of Generations has now received over 100 contributions: historical or biographical observations, diaries and correspondence, objects and drawings, minutes, artistic and scientific contributions as well as photos, audio tapes, films and, increasingly, digital objects.

Every Tuesday at 2.30 p.m. and on Saturdays, volunteers offer an insight into the Library of Generations. An article is presented on the first Tuesday of every month. If you would like to do research, please make an appointment via the visitor service.

An offer for groups: Share your memories based on a contribution from the Library of Generations. Let the contributions inspire you and inspire your own memories. The discussions will be moderated by project participants or museum staff. If you would like to come with a group, we will be happy to coordinate the topics with you in advance. Please contact us via the visitor service. Duration: approx. 120 minutes.