LEMMER, netherlands – Despite a strong showing, the Lemmer Library was named a finalist for Best Library in the Netherlands 2025 but did not win the top prize at Thursday’s awards ceremony in Rotterdam. Bibliotheek neude in Utrecht ultimately received the honor.
The Lemmer Library’s nomination-a first for a Mienskipsbibliotheek-underscores a growing national trend toward community-centered library models. This recognition validates the investment lemmer and its partners made in reimagining the library as a vital social hub, and signals a potential blueprint for future library development across the Netherlands.
Library Director-Bestuurder Rixt Heegsma expressed immense pride in the nomination, stating, “This is a tremendous acknowledgment of the dedication of everyone involved in creating the new Lemmer Library.” She emphasized the importance of the recognition for their Mienskipsbibliotheek approach.
Jury Chairman Chris Wiersma lauded Lemmer’s innovative use of space and community integration. ”It’s remarkable that a town of approximately ten thousand residents has developed such a clear Mienskipsbibliotheek,” Wiersma noted. “From the garden to the central village square within the library itself, everything is co-created with the local community. They’ve accomplished a great deal within a limited footprint.”
the nomination celebrates the recent transformation of the Lemmer Library, a project realized in collaboration with residents and local organizations. Lemmer earned the distinction of being the Netherlands’ first Mienskipsbibliotheek, offering a modern, welcoming surroundings complete with a village square, kitchen, study areas, and a dedicated “Maakplaats” for creative endeavors.
The library will continue to build on its success,remaining a central and inviting space for the community-a place dedicated to innovation and serving as the heart of the mienskip.
