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Concept for a future-oriented facility with high quality of stay and diverse learning opportunities
As the press office of the City of Darmstadt announced, the city council decided in its meeting on March 12, 2025, to develop an implementation plan for a joint education center. The planned merger of the city library and the adult education center (VHS) is intended to create synergies and establish a modern center for education and community engagement in the heart of the city.
“Our goal is a modern hub with a high-quality, non-commercial atmosphere and diverse uses,” said Mayor Hanno Benz. “Darmstadt needs a future-proof education center that establishes innovative forms of learning, enables cultural participation, and brings together people from different target groups.”
Rethinking education: Learning, culture and encounters
The overall concept, developed since 2023, envisions merging the adult education center and the city library into a central hub for learning, creativity, and exchange. The new educational center is designed to be flexible and will combine traditional learning formats with spaces for leisure, information, participation, and culture.
"The connection between the two institutions enables future-oriented educational work," emphasizes Head of Education Holger Klötzner. "Such a third place can make education tangible, break down barriers, and invite people to linger and explore through its atmosphere."
Efficiency and cost-effectiveness are the focus
Economic aspects also play a role: "Through a sustainable business model, we want to significantly increase the cost recovery rate of the education center compared to the current structure," explains City Treasurer André Schellenberg. In addition to developing new formats, the aim is also to tap into additional revenue potential and target groups.
An external consulting firm will oversee the process. Funding will be provided through existing grants within the framework of an organizational review.
Location in the city center is being sought
The concept is designed to be location-independent, but a central downtown location is desired. The Darmstadt Urban Development Company (DSE), together with the city's relevant departments, will now examine suitable sites and finalize the spatial program. The construction will also be carried out in cooperation with the DSE.
The development process was prepared in 2024 with several workshops and working meetings. The resulting concept includes statements on space and equipment requirements as well as the future content direction.
With the planned education center, Darmstadt is responding to the requirements of a diverse and networked urban society – and sending a clear signal for the expansion of lifelong learning.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/DK)
