27.11.2025 | Reading at Rheydt Market Square

Former department store Karstadt becomes the new district library

The conversion of the ground floor of the former, now vacant Karstadt department store at Rheydt Market Square is progressing. By early 2026, the new Rheydt district library will be created here on an area of around 2,050 m², featuring various themed areas, reading and working zones, a gaming lounge, and many other facilities.

Newly created openings in the façade will provide more daylight and natural ventilation. Barrier-free access, a drinking water station, newly designed sanitary facilities with an all-gender restroom, and a modern office wing of around 400 m² will offer contemporary and future-oriented spaces for the library and its use by all citizens.

The former Karstadt property, located directly next to the future “New Administrative Buildings Rheydt,” is being revitalized in line with current needs and gradually adapted for new uses. The conversion of the ground floor into the new district library, for which EWMG is responsible based on designs by sop architekten, represents the first building block in creating an open and inclusive environment for education, culture, and social interaction, and is intended to contribute to revitalizing Rheydt’s city center.

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