The Duchess Anna Amalia Library has been one of the most famous libraries in Germany since the 18th century. It owes its fame to its royal patrons Wilhelm Ernst, Anna Amalia, and Carl August, as well as to its librarians, of whom Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was undoubtedly the most significant.  

General awareness of the library increased greatly after the devastating fire of 2 September 2004. After its complete restoration, which was made possible by donations from a great many supporters, the library reopened on 24 October 2007.

Among the library’s most valuable assets is its unique bible collection, which includes the magnificent Luther Bible from 1534.