Helene Nathan, a prominent figure in the cultural landscape of Neukölln, left an indelible mark through her passionate dedication to literature and community. Born on August 23, 1885 in Oels, Lower Silesia, she was a dedicated member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and saw library services in working-class districts as a vital educational tool. During her tenure, significant progress was made in youth library initiatives, as she acknowledged the transformative impact of early access to books and learning resources.

On July 1, 1921, she assumed the role of head of the library in Neukölln. This made her one of the first women to hold a management position in a major library in Berlin. Her work was focused on cultivating a passion for reading and knowledge-sharing among the local population. Nathan’s vision was not merely to provide readers with access to books, but to create a vibrant center where people of all ages could gather, explore new ideas, and enrich their lives through literature. Under Nathan’s stewardship, the library expanded its reach and influence. She established the first branch of the library in Britz, extending the library’s footprint to better serve local residents. Beyond books, she also curated events, workshops, and readings, thereby fostering a sense of community among the residents of Neukölln. 

From 1935 to 1937, she was employed at the Jewish bookshop Kedem. She later received an offer to emigrate to Great Britain. Tragically, this plan was thwarted by the outbreak of World War II and the beginning of the deportation of Jews. Feeling hopeless, she took her own life on October 23, 1940, at the age of 55.