The BieB in Echt opens its doors: a library that is more than books
echt, dinsdag, 11 november 2025.
On 19 November, the new BieB in Echt opens its doors as a modern space for reading, learning, and community life. What sets it apart? The library integrates AI-powered support for digital services, such as logging in with DigiD and beginner-friendly courses. Most notably, the Limburgish dialect is actively preserved and shared here, creating a tangible link to local identity. Whether you’re seeking help with a government matter, a place to study, or just a chat with a neighbour, the BieB welcomes everyone. The opening will be celebrated with activities for all ages — from LEGO competitions to a book-signing session with a well-known author. This library is not a random initiative, but a deliberate investment in a society where knowledge, connection, and accessibility are equally available to all.
A new heart for the municipality: the BieB as a social and cultural hub
The new BieB in Echt opens its doors on 19 November at Bovenste Straat 9, a location that extends far beyond the tradition of book lending. The library is an initiative by the municipality of Echt-Susteren in collaboration with De Domijnen, an organisation that plays a role within the national strategy of knowledge institutions by integrating information, education, culture, and meeting spaces [1]. The building emerged from the need for more space: the previous location at number 11 was too small to meet the ambitions of a fully-fledged library [1]. Now, the BieB offers space for reading, learning, meeting, and social support, including an extensive language café, a Ukkiecafé for young parents, and room for local initiatives such as reading groups and workshops [1]. The opening will be celebrated with activities for all ages, including a book-signing session with author Marion van de Coolwijk and a LEGO competition titled ‘Build Your Own Book’ [1][2]. Alderman Inge Minkenberg emphasises that the BieB is ‘truly of and for our residents’, a place where knowledge, language, and connection are close at hand for everyone [1]. The library also integrates the VVV Service Point and the information desk of Het Smalste Stukje Nederland, transforming the space into a centre for both culture and public services [1].
AI and digital support: the BieB as a bridge to the digital society
The BieB in Echt integrates digital tools and AI-powered services to better inform, guide, and connect users [1]. A core component is the Informatiepunt Digitale Overheid (IDO), which is organised at multiple locations across De Domijnen, including in Echt [2]. The IDO offers assistance with logging in using DigiD, courses such as Klik & Tik and Digisterker, and support with using digital healthcare platforms like Thuisarts.nl, Apotheek.nl, patient portals, and video consultations [2]. The Klik & Tik course is scheduled for 17 November 2025 at Bibliotheek Echt, aimed at adults with limited digital experience [2]. The DigiVitaler programme, focused on digital healthcare, is announced for the periods of 17–21 November and 24–28 November 2025, with activities taking place in Echt, Beek, Stein, Born, and Geleen [2]. These initiatives illustrate how libraries like the BieB function as digital bridges, especially for vulnerable groups who may remain excluded from the digital world due to lack of knowledge or access [2]. The BieB also provides support in using the digital ordering platform, in collaboration with De Domijnen [1]. The accessibility of these services is high, as the opening on 19 November is free and open to all, even without a library membership [1].
Local identity in the digital age: Limburgish dialect as part of knowledge
A unique aspect of the BieB is its deliberate integration of the Limburgish dialect into the library’s daily operations, an effort to preserve and embed local identity within the digital society [1]. This initiative takes place in collaboration with Veldeke Krink Ech, an organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the Limburgish dialect [1]. Alderman Inge Minkenberg stresses that the Limburgish dialect ‘belongs to who we are’ and ‘connects us to this region’ [1]. This is not merely decorative; it is a strategic choice to strengthen inclusivity and safeguard linguistic diversity within an institutional environment that often focuses on standard Dutch [1]. By actively incorporating the dialect into activities and communications, the library becomes a space where more than just information is shared — culture and identity are also passed on [1]. Thus, the BieB is not only a repository of knowledge but also a living, regional narrative that is transmitted across generations [1].
The future of AI in the library: challenges and opportunities
While the BieB in Echt exemplifies how libraries can be modernised with digital tools [1][2], the integration of AI into service delivery comes with challenges. Privacy, accessibility, and the evolving role of library staff represent a complex balance [1][2]. Although the sources provide no specific details on how AI-powered search systems or automated cataloguing are implemented at the BieB, it is clear that there is a conscious investment in digital skills and technological support [1][2]. The effectiveness of AI-based systems depends on transparency and trust — a challenge many public institutions face [2]. The BieB addresses this by offering personal guidance through courses and the IDO, ensuring the human element remains central in a technological environment [2]. The future of the library is therefore not about replacing people with machines, but about strengthening human connections through technology [1]. The BieB in Echt demonstrates that libraries can function as so-called ‘democratising spaces’ where knowledge and access are available to everyone, regardless of age, background, or digital proficiency [1].