Library
The library at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin supports researchers every step of the way, from research to publication – with specialist literature, digital services and advice on open access and academic publishing.
Overview
With over 425,000 physical and digital resources, ranging from historical works to the latest studies, the library offers information resources on biodiversity and evolutionary research, zoology, palaeontology and mineralogy, as well as the history of science.
As an information and service infrastructure, the library supports researchers from the initial information search right through to publication. The Centre for Academic Publishing advises authors on the publication of research findings and continues to develop the framework for open science.
What we offer
- Online catalogue of specialist literature (books, journals, e-books and e-journals, maps and databases)
- Historical collections (from the 15th century onwards), type literature, offprints and dissertations
- Publication advice via the Coordination Office for Academic Publishing (in-house service)
- Service and support: research assistance, interlibrary loans and digitisation, digital tools and behind-the-scenes insights
- Workstations: Reading and computer workstations at the temporary location (following the move)
We also particularly recommend the Biodiversity Heritage Library, which you can access from home and where we also present the museum’s collections.
Contact
Elisa Herrmann
Scientific management
Email: Elisa.Herrmann@mfn.berlin
Telephone: +49 30 889140-8392
Access
The museum is undergoing changes – and so is the library. Due to building work as part of our museum’s evolution, the library collection has moved to a temporary location. In the future, we will be relocating to the museum’s new second site in Adlershof.
Even during the move, the library remains your reliable source of academic information. Make use of our digital services or contact us for bespoke solutions. Until then, remember: we’re just a click away.
At the same time, the library team is working to make the library fit for the future. You can find our plans in Plan 2029.
Do you have any suggestions on how we can better support your information and service needs in the future? Please feel free to email us at: bibliothek@mfn.berlin
Frequently asked questions about moving house
Can I access media resources whilst the move is taking place?
No, physical access is currently not possible. However, you can request digital copies or access e-media. Please send us an email and we will find a solution.
When will the library reopen as normal?
We plan to be back to normal for you from spring 2026. You can always find the latest information here or on the main page of the library catalogue.
How can I obtain urgently needed literature that is not available digitally?
We will check whether we can provide digital copies. Please email us with your request: bibliothek@mfn.berlin
Is the online catalogue working as usual?
Yes. All digital services are fully available.
Can I use the study areas during the move?
Unfortunately not – the premises are currently inaccessible.
Bibliothek im Wandel: Mitarbeitende verpacken Bestände in der ehemaligen Paläontologischen Bibliothek und räumen Regale für den Umzug an einen Interimsstandort.
Photo: Verena Brüning
Ehemalige Zoologische Bibliothek im Westflügel nach Auszug der Bestände und vor Beginn der Baumaßnahmen 
Visualisierung der geplanten Mediothek im Westflügel des Museums (Vorhaben im laufenden Bauabschnitt)
Academic journals
Modern research for 165 years
The Museum of Natural History publishes three scientific journals:
- Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift
- Zoosystematics and Evolution (formerly Communications from the Zoological Museum Berlin)
- Fossil Record
Each journal is published twice a year. The Museum bears editorial responsibility and has owned the titles since 1857 (Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift), 1898 (Zoosystematics and Evolution) and 1998 (Fossil Record) respectively.
Since 2014, all three specialist journals have been freely accessible and promote open scientific exchange.
Open Access
Research findings freely available
The Academic Publishing Coordination Office supports the museum’s researchers throughout the entire publication process and advises them on publication options, open access and issues relating to good academic practice. It develops guidelines – such as the open access policy – and establishes the necessary infrastructure for the publication process.
Open Access publications make research findings freely available to everyone, without any reading costs. This enhances transparency, re-use and open academic exchange. In addition, the Coordination Office develops training materials, including those in playful formats. These materials are freely available as Open Educational Resources.