Mission Statement

Founded in 1986 as the first literature centre in the German-speaking world, the Literaturhaus Berlin is a publicly funded cultural and educational institution dedicated to promoting and disseminating world literature. Through readings, discussions, and exhibitions, literature from the past and present is presented in contemporary formats. The Literaturhaus Berlin is an open, welcoming venue for anyone interested in literature; it offers a space for aesthetic enjoyment as well as for critical engagement with what literature is, what it can and should be, and what place it should have in our society.

The literature presented at the Literaturhaus Berlin is international and multilingual. It encompasses all forms and genres, including prose, poetry, drama, fiction, graphic novels, literary performances, and digital formats, in order to approach the complex questions of our time with curiosity and, quite literally, from all angles. Local, national, and international audiences of all ages and income groups are welcome at the Literaturhaus Berlin and are invited to enjoy engaging with the diverse forms of literary expression while gaining new insights.

To ensure that discussions of and about literature remain at the cutting edge, the Literaturhaus Berlin employs an outstanding team of staff who undergo regular professional development and who, whether in the office during the day or on stage and behind the scenes in the evenings, are committed to the well-being of all our guests – whether taking part in an event or in the audience.