German-American Cultural Center Library

The Sacramento Turn Verein (STV) welcomes you to visit its unique library, the German-American Cultural Center – Library (GACC – L), often simply referred to as “The Library.”  With some exceptions, the GACC – Library is usually open to the public on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and on the first Tuesday of the month (September-June) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What makes this Library so unique?  It is the only Library in Northern California offering a wealth of specific information to anyone interested in German culture, traditions, history, and German Americana. The term German culture is extended to the bordering German-speaking countries of Austria, Switzerland (and Liechtenstein.)

Visitors and members may browse for books and DVDs, but they may also read German newspapers and magazines, study the large German map, and attend monthly meetings and cultural programs.  In addition, visitors may find the Library a satisfying and comfortable place to hold discussions during open hours.*

As an official Section of the Sacramento Turn Verein, the Library houses the archives of the STV, founded in 1854, and aims to preserve and to promote German culture and language in the Sacramento area. The present Library was renovated and opened in 1998 due to the efforts of several Turn Verein members, including Dr. Jon Igelman, Hans Joachim Raschack, Günther Laudi, and Uli Pelz, to mention a few.  It became an official  “Section” of the STV in 2001.

Shortly after its establishment, the GACC – L began circulating a quarterly publication, Mitteilungen, (“Communications”) in English, to share pertinent information about German culture and the various Sections within the STV: the STV monthly calendar and the German Language School schedule. Members receive a paper copy in the mail quarterly, and a digital copy is posted on this STV website under “Mitteilungen”.

To become a member, please fill out a membership application–available in the STV–GACC Cultural Center–Library, or following this description. Membership fees are $20.00 per family annually. You may pay by check sent to the GACC–L at 3349 J St., Sacramento, CA 95819, or by scrolling to the bottom of this page and clicking on the “Donate” button. Cash payments are also welcome at the library.  German language skills or ethnicity are not required, but an interest in German culture is desired! Membership in the GACC – L includes a paper subscription to Mitteilungen, the right to check out books and DVDs, and to participate in cultural activities.

Cultural activities usually take place on the third Friday of each month, with some exceptions.  The activities include a few special events, such as the showing of the German Kult-film, Feuerzangenbowle, in January, and the hosting of the popular Viennese Kaffeehaus in May. “Third Friday-of-the-Month” programs include German movies (with English subtitles), guest speakers, cooking demonstrations—all celebrating German culture and traditions. Except for January and May, these events are free.  A small genealogy section will be added beginning in January 2026.

To track announcements about our events, view them on our Facebook page. Feel free to e-mail us at gacclibrarystv@gmail.com for further information or leave a message at (916) 442-7503.

*Open Hours:  Most Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; First Tuesdays from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m.  These hours may be expanded depending on volunteer availability.