Libraries in Eindhoven have launched a pilot offering of free library membership to residents, as a way to make reading and library services more accessible to everyone. The pilot plan runs from April 2026 to the end of 2027. The initiative was first proposed by Eindhoven municipal council factions D66, PvdA, SP, and Volt.
Costs
Library director Albert Kivits and Eindhoven alderman Saskia Lammers recently presented the first free membership card to Marquida von Liebenstein, a frequent visitor to the Bibliotoop in Tongelre. She has been coming to the library almost every day, but had never signed up as a paying member, mainly because subscription fees felt too high for her income.
A standard budget membership costs around 19 euros per year, while a full “comfort” subscription can cost up to roughly 47 euros annually. For residents on a tight budget, that price difference has evidently been enough to keep them away from the library.
Intent
Kivits acknowledges that the library is a place for everyone. He points out that the free option will help libraries stay connected with people at different life stages. “We see that many young people drop out of the library system the moment they turn 18. With this option, we have a better chance of keeping them involved. Money is a barrier not only for older residents, but also for younger adults”.
More details can be found on bibliotheekeindhoven.nl/gratislid
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