A focus at the DNB: information security

Photo: DNB, Josephine Kreutzer

Information security is becoming increasingly important everywhere. The volume and value of data are growing – at the DNB too. At the same time, cyberattacks and data breaches are on the rise. This is not only about protecting personal data, but also about securing sensitive information from unauthorized access, loss, or manipulation. In order to meet these increasing requirements, the DNB has gained additional personnel in 2024 with Joachim Pfeiffer as Information Security Officer (ISB).

New information offering for employees: Information security and data protection

The ISB is responsible for all information security tasks. These include security and emergency preparedness concepts, guidelines and policies, training, and the investigation of security incidents. In 2024, the ISB and the official data protection officer jointly provided information for employees on the topic of “Information security and data protection” on the intranet. This offering is being continuously expanded.

All networks checked – security gaps closed

The DNB works closely with the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). In 2024, the BSI checked all DNB networks that are accessible from outside. Security gaps were closed on this basis. But of course, IT security is just as much an ongoing process as data protection.

Using digital tools correctly: the AI policy

The DNB has also implemented an AI policy in 2024. It provides all employees with guidance on how to use descriptive and generative artificial intelligence tools – from a legal, ethical, and operational perspective. It explains what needs to be considered when using AI applications such as ChatGPT, BARF, or DALL-E, how data protection is ensured, and how the results should be interpreted.

Digitisation of administration: also on site

Facility management also received an update in 2024. New software was introduced for property management: CAFM (Computer Aided Facility Management). It facilitates the inventory of all mobile items and supports building management in the long term, especially in terms of maintenance and repair. In addition, payment processing in the underground car park at the Frankfurt site has been converted to a cashless system. The use of cloakroom lockers has also been optimized: instead of a money exchange service, tactile tokens are now used. This has made central services more convenient on site.

Fit for the digital future

Training courses last year enabled employees to become fit for the digital future. In 20 events, 220 people learned about tools such as OpenRefine and Business Process Model Notation (BPMN). BPMN is used to record, change, and control business processes and workflows. This is an essential prerequisite for effective digitization. OpenRefine is a program for cleaning and converting data. Both are indispensable for the DNB's digitization process. However, training courses were not only offered on digitization topics.

59 courses, including training for managers

In total, employees took part in 59 training events in 2024. These included 80 managers. They developed their leadership skills as part of the “DNB@Campus” program, which the DNB launched in collaboration with the KompetenzCampus at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences. In addition, there were seminars on appreciative feedback and conflict management. Both are areas of expertise that are essential in a learning organisation.

Learning from others

Photo: SBB, Pia Beckmann

But it is not only further training in the narrower sense that provides new impetus. The DNB has also entered into dialogue with other cultural institutions on topics such as organisational development and remuneration regulations as part of an inter-agency exchange of experiences. The exchange with the Berlin State Library (SBB) and the Bavarian State Library (BSB) also promoted networking in areas such as user services, collection preservation, strategy, and communication. This actively put into practice the principle of “strong external networking” set out in the Strategic Compass 2035.

Raising awareness, recognizing anti-Semitism

Political education was also offered. The German Exile Archive led the workshop “Recognizing Anti-Semitism” at the yearly employee meeting. Its goal: to raise awareness of the various manifestations of anti-Semitism. This form of misanthropy has many faces. The 20 participants first discussed everyday anti-Semitism. They then used concrete examples to examine different manifestations of anti-Semitism. For example, there is religious, modern, racist, secondary, and Israel-related anti-Semitism. Further events of this kind are planned for the future.

Kulturweit-Incoming: Offering opportunities and engaging in exchange

Photos: Carl Götz, Herinivomalala Andrianjaka Andrianarisoa

The participation of the German Museum of Books and Writing and the German Exile Archive in the UNESCO program kulturweit-Incoming created a completely different setting for personal development. This program offers young people from Africa and the Middle East the opportunity to spend three months getting a taste of life at a German cultural or educational institution. A learning experience for the interns – but also a broadening of horizons for the colleagues who supervise them! The aim of the program is to promote a cosmopolitan society in line with UNESCO's principles. The focus is on lifelong personal development in the areas of culture, education, and human rights. There is also a blog post about one intern's “adventure”.