Volunteer Heroes: Friends of the Book Celebrate Golden Registration!

Volunteer Heroes: Friends of the Book Celebrate Golden Registration!

On July 6, 2025, a very special event took place in Neustrelitz. Christine Büttner, the chairwoman of the “Friends of Books” e.V., ceremoniously signed her name in the city’s Golden Book. This award, which was presented on behalf of the entire team, recognizes the association's many years of voluntary commitment and cultural significance. Mayor Max Odebrecht and Mayor Andreas Grund were also present at the ceremony.

The association, which has been running the largest antiquarian bookstore in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania since 2014, houses more than 40,000 books and records on a spacious 350 square meters. Barrier-free access on the ground floor of a listed harbor warehouse makes browsing and reading a relaxing experience. “It is important to us that everyone has access to culture and knowledge,” emphasizes Büttner during the ceremony. The members actively helped with the relocation of the antique store from the second floor to the ground floor, which took place between November 2024 and March 2025.

Volunteering in focus

The success and popularity of the club are no coincidence. Voluntary commitment, as shown by the “Friends of the Book”, is of great importance in Germany. Studies show that the type and motivation of engagement can vary. Many people, like the 69 members of the association, get actively involved and enrich the community. A look at the studies on volunteer work shows that numerous factors play a role, including differences in social background and regional conditions.

At the “Friends of the Book” antiquarian bookshop, cultural events are also an integral part of the program, which is organized by volunteers. The dedicated members not only offer a diverse selection of media, but also a pleasant atmosphere with sofas and armchairs for test reading. The antiquarian bookstore is open from Easter to the end of October, which attracts many bookworms and music lovers to the Hanseatic city.

A proud tradition

The nomination for entry in the Golden Book is not only seen as a personal honor for Christine Büttner, but also honors the collective efforts of all club members and the positive culture of discourse in Neustrelitz. Commitment to cultural projects and the promotion of reading is a valuable part of life in the city and beyond. The “Friends of the Book” association has not only made a name for itself, but is also an important cultural anchor point.

The antiquarian bookshop in Neustrelitz has taken on an outstanding role as a meeting place for book lovers and those interested in culture. Anyone interested in literature and quality of life will get their money's worth here. Because one thing is clear: The Friends of the Book have a good knack for culture and are helping to further promote the love of literature in the region.

For further information about the antiquariat and the activities of the “Friends of the Book” visit the antiquariat website or read the article [Strelitzius]. The importance of voluntary work in Germany is also analyzed and discussed on Bücher.de.