Due to the relocation of the collection, Oriental manuscripts will not be available for use until October 31, 2026.

Starting November 1, 2026, manuscripts and other special materials managed by the Oriental Department will be made available for consultation in the Vivarium Reading Room.

Opening Hours

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday and Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Registration

Requests for manuscripts and special materials in the Vivarium Reading Room must be submitted exclusively via email to the Oriental Department's office, specifying the required shelfmarks and the date of use: orient@sbb.spk-berlin.de

Requests must be submitted at least 7 days prior to the scheduled visit.

Important Notes

For reasons of collection preservation and protection, it is possible that individual items may not be made available for consultation. In such cases, we will inform you accordingly prior to your scheduled visit.

To access manuscripts and special collections, you must present an official identification document (passport or national ID card) along with a valid library card.