Architecture & Art, Books, Paris, Travel

Where to Find the Most Beautiful Libraries and Bookstores in Paris

March 14, 2025

Paris is a dream destination for book lovers, not just for its charming bookshops like Shakespeare and Company but also for its magnificent public libraries. Whether you’re looking for a quiet reading nook, breathtaking architecture, or a deep dive into literary history, these libraries offer a haven for bibliophiles. Here are some of the best public libraries in Paris to visit.

French Lesson!

La bibliothèque is a library and la libraire is a bookstore. It can be confusing because librarie sounds like library, but don’t be fooled!

1. Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève

Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève, Paris, France

Located in the Latin Quarter, the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève is one of the most stunning libraries in Paris. Designed by architect Henri Labrouste in the 19th century, its vast reading room features ironwork arches and rows of wooden desks bathed in warm light. This library is open to the public and perfect for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere to read or study.

Address: 10 place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 10 pm (see site for details)

2. Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) – Richelieu Library

Bibliotheque Nationale de France (BNF) Richelieu Library, Paris, France

The historic Richelieu Library, part of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates grand architecture and literary heritage. Recently restored, its oval reading room (Salle Ovale) is a masterpiece with domed ceilings and elegant bookshelves. The BnF also houses rare manuscripts and historical collections, making it an extraordinary stop for researchers and book enthusiasts alike.

Address: Quai François Mauriac 75706 Paris (Cedex 13)

Hours: Monday, 2pm – 8pm/ Tues.-Sat. – 9am – 8pm/ Sunday – 1pm – 7pm

3. Bibliothèque Mazarine

The oldest public library in France, the Bibliothèque Mazarine, was founded in the 17th century and is housed in the beautiful Institut de France. With its rich wooden interiors, vast collection of antique books, and a scholarly ambiance, this library is a paradise for history and literature lovers.

Address: 23 Quai de Conti, 75006 Paris

Hours: Mon. through Saturday from 10am to 6pm / from Mon. through Friday in summer

4. Bibliothèque Forney

Exterior of Hôtel Sens, where the Bibliothèque Forney is located.

Housed in the medieval Hôtel de Sens in the Marais, the Bibliothèque Forney is a hidden gem dedicated to the decorative arts. If you’re passionate about design, fashion, and craftsmanship, this library’s vast collection of books and periodicals will captivate you. The beautiful courtyard and historic architecture make it a picturesque stop for any book lover.

Address: Hôtel de Sens, 1 rue du Figuier, 75004 Paris

Hours: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday – 1pm-7.30pm; Wednesday and Thursday – 10am-7.30pm.

5. Bibliothèque de l’Hôtel de Ville

Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville, Paris France — Bibliothèque de l’Hôtel de Ville, Paris France

Located within Paris’ city hall, the Bibliothèque de l’Hôtel de Ville is a fantastic resource for those interested in Parisian history. It offers a vast collection of books, photographs, and maps documenting the city’s past. The elegant reading rooms provide a cozy environment for immersing yourself in Parisian culture and history.

Address: 5 rue Lobau, 75004 Paris

Hours: Generally, Mon.-Fri: 9:30am-6pm/ Closed Sat. and Sun. (Check site for exceptions)

6. Bibliothèque Marguerite Durand

Dedicated to feminism and women’s history, the Bibliothèque Marguerite Durand in the 13th arrondissement is a fascinating library with a specialized collection on women’s rights, literature, and activism. Named after journalist and feminist Marguerite Durand, this library is a treasure trove of knowledge on women’s contributions to society.

Address: 79 rue Nationale, 75013 Paris

Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat.: 1pm-6pm/ Wed.: 10am-6pm/ Closed Sunday & Monday

7. Médiathèque Françoise Sagan

One of the more modern and inviting libraries in Paris, the Médiathèque Françoise Sagan is located in a renovated former hospital. It features a bright and welcoming atmosphere with a large collection of books, a cozy children’s section, and even a charming garden for outdoor reading.

Address: 8 rue Léon Schwartzenberg, 75010 Paris

Hours: Closed Monday/ Tues., Thurs., Fri.: 1pm-7pm/ Wed.: 10am-7pm/ Sat.: 10am-6pm/ Sun.: 1pm-6pm

8. American Library in Paris

Although not a public library, the American Library in Paris deserves a mention for English-speaking book lovers. Founded in 1920, it is the largest English-language lending library in Europe and offers a cozy space with a fantastic selection of books, regular author events, and a strong sense of community.

Address: 10 Rue du Général Camou, 75007 Paris

Hours: Tues. and Wed.: 10am – 9pm/ Thurs., Fri., Sat.: 10am-7pm/ Sun.: 1pm-7pm/ Closed Mon. (Check times for Summer reduced hours and holidays).

Best Bookstores in Paris for Book Lovers

Paris is also home to some of the most iconic bookstores in the world. Whether you’re looking for rare finds, contemporary reads, or a charming atmosphere, these bookstores should be on your literary itinerary.

1. Shakespeare & Company

Shakespeare and Company Bookstore in Paris, France

A legendary bookstore on the Left Bank, Shakespeare & Company is a must-visit for any book lover. This iconic English-language bookshop, founded in 1951, is filled with literary history and charm. Its cozy reading nooks, resident writers, and views of Notre-Dame make it one of the most magical spots in Paris.

Address: 37 rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France

Website

2. Librairie Galignani

Located on Rue de Rivoli, Librairie Galignani is one of the oldest English-language bookstores in Paris. With a sophisticated and refined atmosphere, this bookstore offers an excellent selection of literature, art, and history books, along with a carefully curated English section.

Address: 224 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

Website

3. Abbey Bookshop

A hidden gem in the Latin Quarter, the Abbey Bookshop is a cozy and overflowing English-language bookstore founded by a Canadian bookseller. It’s a perfect spot to find second-hand books and unique literary treasures in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie 75005 Paris

Website

4. Librairie Jousseaume

Galerie Vivienne, historic shopping mall with luxury shops in Paris

Nestled in the historic Galerie Vivienne, Librairie Jousseaume is a stunning bookstore that specializes in rare and antique books. If you love old-world Parisian charm and beautiful book collections, this shop is a delight to explore.

Address: 45-46-47 galerie Vivienne, 75002 Paris

Website

5. Librairie du Passage

Façade of the Hôtel Chopin in the Passage Jouffroy, Paris

Over in Passage Jouffroy, an lovely and historical 19th century arcade, the Librairie du Passage is known for its selection of rare and antique books. Beautifully aged volumes of books sit gracefully on wooden shelves, bathed in warm lighting and full of Parisian charm.

Address: 48 Pass. Jouffroy, 75009 Paris

Website

6. Le Monte-en-l’Air

For those who enjoy independent and avant-garde literature, Le Monte-en-l’Air in the 20th arrondissement offers a fantastic selection of contemporary books, graphic novels, and art publications. It frequently hosts author readings and cultural events, making it a lively literary hub.

Address: 71, rue de Ménilmontant / 2, rue de la Mare 75020 Paris

Website

Conclusion

Paris’ public libraries and bookstores offer more than just books—they provide a unique glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and literary heritage. Whether you’re a literature lover, a researcher, or simply in search of a quiet place to read, these destinations promise an unforgettable experience.

So, the next time you find yourself in Paris, take a break from the bustling streets and step into one of these magnificent libraries or bookstores to discover the city’s literary soul.

Book Recommendation

If you love Paris AND books and books about books in Paris… this is a great read. It’s a bit of a mystery, but the City of Lights is one of the main characters and is a chance to fantasize about running a bookstore in Paris: