German Culture Minister Signals Support for National Library Expansion in Leipzig

German Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer has indicated potential support for the long-planned expansion of the German National Library in Leipzig. During a panel discussion on freedom of expression at the Leipzig Book Fair, Weimer stated his political interest in enlarging the library physically, including through construction if necessary. This follows previous clarification that the expansion project is not definitively canceled, pending final review of planning documents by federal building authorities and securing long-term funding. The library had previously announced Weimer's opposition to the project, which drew criticism. The expansion aims to create space for books and other media, with planning costs around seven million euros and total construction estimated over 100 million euros.