After nearly 250 years of utilisation the first Gewandhaus was torn down and from 1740 to 1744 replaced by the municipal library, which was erected in baroque manner and again hosted an armory (in its east wing). Many parts can still be recognised in today's building. In 1780/1781 the armory was reconstructed into a concert hall, which was the first permanent home of the Gewandhaus orchestra (Germany's oldest civic orchestra, as opposed to one under royal or aristocratic patronage).
After nearly 250 years of use, the first Gewandhaus was demolished and from 1740 to 1744 replaced by a municipal library built in the baroque style. This new structure also housed an armory (in its eastern section). Many parts of today's building can still be identified. In 1780/1781, the armory was transformed into a concert hall that became the initial permanent home for the Gewandhaus orchestra (Germany's oldest civic orchestra, not under royal or aristocratic sponsorship).