Muntpunt will open its doors from 27 April 2026 on weekdays at 9 am with unmanned access for registered members. This will extend the Brussels library's opening hours without deploying additional staff. Flanders and the Flemish Community Commission (VGC) are jointly investing more than €200,000 to make this modernisation possible. Muntpunt aims to become an even more open house for Brussels, where visitors can study, work or read early in the day.
“Our libraries are an integral part of our urban infrastructure. By extending opening hours, we are increasing accessibility and convenience for visitors. After all, libraries are crucial places where everyone can access culture, knowledge, and social interaction in an accessible and affordable way. With an unmanned desk, Muntpunt is taking the next step in its development as a library of the future,” says VGC college member Ans Persoons.
Also Cieltje Van Achter, The Flemish Minister for Brussels welcomes the initiative. “As the flagship of the Flemish community in Brussels, Muntpunt plays an important role in the cultural and social life of the city. By opening its doors earlier, this open house for knowledge and connection becomes even more accessible to all Brussels residents. Naturally, safety remains essential. That is why investments have been made in camera surveillance, adaptations to the entrance, and the Open+ access system.”
Previously open to those studying, working, or simply seeking peace
Via a simple access system, registered members can enter with their ID card or library card and a personal code. Muntpunt is literally handing over the keys to the house to the people of Brussels. An added value for the early birds among the 2,400 visitors Muntpunt receives on busy days.
During the future unstaffed hours – between 9 and 11 AM – regular members will now have the opportunity to use the library early. WiFi, reading spots, newspapers and magazines will be available, and the coffee machine will also be on. With the new format, Muntpunt wants to better serve these early visitors while simultaneously highlighting the library even more as an accessible and welcoming meeting place in Brussels.
Innovation in challenging times
Those who wish to register or have a question can now visit the Muntpunt counter daily from 11 am, where staff will be available. The new opening hours will be trialled over the coming months. Following an evaluation, Muntpunt will assess whether the system can be further expanded.
The technology behind the system is called Open+. It allows a library to open without permanent desk staff and makes Muntpunt's operations more efficient. By making clever use of technology, the library can still be open for longer periods for the public.
“Open+ creates more opening hours and confirms that we as an organisation dare to innovate, even in difficult times,” says Katrien Vande Walle, Commercial Directorfrom Muntpunt.
Safety and guidance
During unmanned hours, there is a Dutch-speaking steward present in the building and there is CCTV surveillance. Access is only possible for registered members aged 18 and over, after signing the regulations.
“”Visitors who require more guidance will be approached and helped personally in the first few weeks," says Katrien Braeckman, reception coordinator.
Saturday hour change
For your information: From April onwards, Muntpunt will open on Saturdays at 11 am instead of 10 am.