Saxon Library Award 2025 goes to the "GEORGIUS AGRICOLA" University Library at TU Bergakademie Freiberg
The library impressed the jury with a pioneering idea on how libraries can use artificial intelligence (AI) to optimise processes in their everyday library work.
The "GEORGIUS AGRICOLA" University Library at TU Bergakademie Freiberg has been awarded the Saxon Library Prize 2025. The prize will be presented by the Saxon State Minister for Culture and Tourism, Barbara Klepsch, together with the Chairman of the Saxony Library Association, Lars Rohwer, on 12 December 2025 at the university library.
The Freiberg University Library will use the prize money of 10,000 euros to implement its forward-looking idea.
"I would like to congratulate the "GEORGIUS AGRICOLA" University Library at TU Bergakademie Freiberg on winning this prize. The further development of information technology has revolutionised processes and services in libraries in recent decades. Nowadays, almost every library needs a complex IT system landscape. The Freiberg project idea shows libraries a way to integrate the potential of AI technology into everyday library work. The Freiberg University Library is thus providing significant impetus for the future of library practice and delivering a transferable model with a state-wide impact," said Saxony's Minister of Culture Barbara Klepsch, praising the university library.
The Rector of TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Prof. Dr Jutta Emes, emphasised: "I am delighted that our Freiberg University Library "GEORGIUS AGRICOLA" has been awarded the Saxon Library Prize 2025 for innovative formats for AI mediation. Our library is not only a beacon of the university landscape due to its modern premises and infrastructure, but also a central location for living innovation. TU Bergakademie Freiberg stands for strong digital competences and a future-oriented use of artificial intelligence. Here in Freiberg, we develop ideas and projects that meet the requirements of the AI age in a special way."
Since 2013, a library in the Free State of Saxony has been honoured annually with the Saxon Library Award. With a new focus this year, the prize honours innovative projects and ideas that can be implemented with the help of the prize money of 10,000 euros. The prize is awarded jointly by the Saxon State Minister for Culture and Tourism and the Saxon Library Association.
The jury also commended the Schneeberg Municipal Library in 2025 for its remarkable commitment to many small libraries.
