Paris, the iconic capital of art and history, is also a sought-after hub for students. Every year, young people from all over France and around the world flock here, looking for the ideal place to revise or work in groups.
Forget the hustle and bustle o f cafes and streets, and immerse yourself in these havens of culture open almost all week. What better place than a library to dive deep into your studies? We unveil the top 10 libraries in Paris for you. From the famous BNF (Bibliothèque Nationale de France) to the historic Sainte-Geneviève, these spaces offer tranquility, endless resources, and a studious atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a specific book, a table just for yourself, or a common place to study in groups, one of these libraries will surely meet your needs. Discover these Parisian treasures quickly and enjoy a one-of-a-kind study experience. 📚🌟
#1 : Bibliothèque François-Mitterrand (BNF)
Let’s kick off this article with one of the most renowned libraries in Paris: the BNF. Nestled in the heart of Paris, right beside the Seine, we set our sights on this unique library. If you’re a lover of history, culture, and jaw-dropping architecture, welcome to the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand.
Step through the doors of this modern edifice—a true sanctuary of knowledge. With its four majestic towers reminiscent of open books, it sprawls over a whopping 320,000 m² dedicated to learning. The National Library of France is not just a place steeped in history; it’s a space where millions of documents, artworks, and archives mingle, offering visitors an unparalleled dive into the wealth of global heritage.
Beyond its serene reading spaces, you’ll feel ensconced in a cultural ambiance like no other. From temporary exhibitions to enthralling conferences, the BNF is also a hotspot for events and networking. Settle down comfortably in one of its many areas, taking in a breathtaking view of the Seine, all while engrossed in a rare book or specialized magazine.
Pros: An unparalleled trove of documents right in the heart of Paris.
Cons: With so much to explore, you might just lose track of time.
Opening hours: Mon. 2 pm – 8 pm 🕧 Tue. to Sat. 9 am – 8 pm 🕧 Sun. 1 pm – 7 pm
Price: Free for exclusive library use
Access: Metro lines 6 and 14 🚇 RER C 🚏 Buses 62 / 64 / 89 / 132 / 325
📍BNF – François Mitterrand Library, Quai François Mauriac, 75013 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐🪐 4.6/5 on Google Review
#2 : Sainte-Geneviève Library (BSG)
Next, embark on a journey to the Sainte-Geneviève Library, a true gem located in the 5th arrondissement. Nestled just a stone’s throw from the Panthéon, this historic library beckons you on a temporal voyage. If you’re an aficionado of knowledge and atmospheres steeped in history, BSG is sure to delight!
Step through the doors of this neoclassical edifice designed by the French architect Henri Labrouste, a pioneer of ironwork. His groundbreaking structure blending stone and wrought iron houses over 2 million documents, bearing witness to centuries of scholarship. The Sainte-Geneviève Library is more than just a library: it’s a crossroads where history, culture, and knowledge converge.
Beyond its studious vibe, you’ll be mesmerized by the serenity exuding from its long wooden tables and its majestic vaulted ceiling. From rare manuscripts to ancient books known as “incunabula”, every nook and cranny of the Sainte-Geneviève Library beckons you to explore. So, settle in comfortably to study, surrounded by an array of books, each more majestic than the last.
Pros: A deep dive into historical Paris.
Cons: Time seems to stand still; you might wish to stay forever.
Opening hours: Mon. to Sat. 10 am – 8 pm 🕧 Sun. closed
Price: Free for on-site consultation
Access: Metro line 10 🚇 Buses 84 / 89 / 21
📍Sainte-Geneviève Library, 10 Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1/5 on Google Review
#3 : Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville (BHdV)
Are you fond of the Marais district? Be informed that it doesn’t just boast clothing boutiques, trendy bars, and one of Paris’s most beautiful monuments: The Louvre. It also shelters a well-hidden treasure: the City Hall Library (BHdV). Perfectly situated along the Seine, this library will captivate you if you have a passion for art, history, and iconic landmarks.
This neo-Renaissance building, right at the heart of the City Hall, will transport you into a profoundly solemn and studious ambiance. Its collections, which have been replenished despite a major fire in 1871, provide a comprehensive and unique view of Parisian life throughout the ages. Roaming the aisles, you’ll discover rare manuscripts, ancient engravings, and other valuable artifacts that pay tribute to the capital’s immense cultural richness.
Beyond its peaceful atmosphere, it’s the historical aura of the BHdV where you’ll lose yourself. From detailed city maps to vintage photographs, each item will remind you of Paris’s vibrant past. Settle into a quiet nook in the library to study in the utmost tranquility.
Pros: A unique journey through the history of Paris.
Cons: A treasure so well-hidden people sometimes forget to visit, and somewhat inflexible opening hours.
Opening hours: Mon. to Fri. 9:30 am – 5 pm 🕧 closed on weekends
Price: Free for on-site consultation
Access: Metro line 1 🚇 Buses 38 / 67 / 69 / 70 / 72 / 75 / 76 / 96
📍BHdV – City Hall Library, 4 Rue de Lobau, 75004 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐🪐 4.7/5 on Google Review.
#4 : Sorbonne Interuniversity Library
Next, let’s head towards one of the most famous universities in Paris (and perhaps the world): the Sorbonne. Hidden in the heart of the Latin Quarter is its concealed gem: the Sorbonne Interuniversity Library.
A symbolic library that captures the academic grandeur of prestigious Parisian universities, you’ll be drawn to the beauty and serenity of the place.
Entering this historically-rich site that feels like a living file will offer all the inspiration you need. Thousands of works are available to aid your research and transport you back in time.
Unfortunately, not everyone can access these rich collections. If you are registered with the Sorbonne Interuniversity Library, consider yourself fortunate. However, you’ll need to reserve a slot in advance, as the library is popular among the thousands of students it hosts. You’ll also need to carry your library card or a document proving that you’re indeed a Sorbonne student.
Pros: Complete immersion in a studious and prestigious universe.
Cons: Coveted spots, especially during exam season.
Opening hours: Mon. to Sat. 9 am – 7 pm 🕧 closed on Sun.
Price: Free for students of the ComUE Sorbonne Universities
Access: Metro lines 4 and 10 🚇 RER B and C 🚏 Buses 21 / 27 / 38 / 63 / 82 / 84 / 85 / 86 / 87 / 89
📍Sorbonne Interuniversity Library, 17 Rue de la Sorbonne, 75005 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐🪐 4.7/5 on Google Review
#5 : Marguerite Durand Library
Head to the heart of the 10th arrondissement, one of Paris’s most popular districts. This is where you’ll find a treasure trove of women’s history: the Marguerite Durand Library. Specializing in the history of women, there’s no better place for you to learn more about feminism and the fights for women’s rights. If you’re writing a thesis on these topics, this is the only place you should visit.
Named in honor of Marguerite Durand, a journalist and feminist icon, this institution houses an impressive collection of over 70,000 books, photos, archives, and relics illustrating this significant theme. Every document, every image, whispers to you tales of audacious and inspiring women since the 17th century.
Open to all, you won’t have to spend a dime to enjoy this historically rich setting. Indeed, the Marguerite Durand Library is the perfect space to immerse yourself in this rich history, and who knows, it might inspire you to make a mark in the years to come.
Pros: A unique journey through the history of feminism.
Cons: An immersion so deep you might lose track of time!
Opening hours: Tue., Thu., Fri., Sat. 1 pm – 6 pm 🕧 Wed. 10 am – 6 pm.
Price: Free for on-site consultation.
Access: Metro lines 7 and 14 🚏 Buses 62 / 63 / 64 🚲 Nearby Vélib station.
📍Marguerite Durand Library, Françoise Sagan Media Library, 75010 Paris.
⭐⭐⭐⭐🪐 4.7/5 on Google Review
#6 : Bpi - Public Information Library
Located right in the heart of Paris, in the legendary Marais district, is our next favorite library. Adjacent to the iconic Pompidou Centre, the Bpi – Public Information Library spans more than three floors.
Here, culture, knowledge, and information await. Over 430,000 documents (ranging from captivating novels and specialized works to futuristic digital resources) are at your disposal, aiding in your revisions, exams, or simply to expand your knowledge.
Whether you’re a student searching for a valuable document for your thesis, a professional looking for inspiration, or you just want to relax and read a book, the BPI is for you. You’re bound to find what you’re looking for here. The space also offers all the technology you might need. If your computer breaks down, you can work on one located on the library’s second floor.
Another asset of this place? No reservations needed! Access is open to all and free of charge. However, we recommend arriving a bit early, even 30 minutes before opening, to ensure you get a spot (we speak from experience).
Pros: Working in a landmark of knowledge.
Cons: Popular library, so be sure to arrive early to ensure a spot.
Opening hours: Mon., Wed. to Fri. 12 pm – 10 pm 🕧 weekends and public holidays 10 am – 10 pm 🕧 closed on Tuesday
Price: Free.
Access: Metro lines 1, 4, 7, and 11 🚆 RER A, B, and D 🚏 Bus 21 / 29 / 38 / 47 / 58 / 69 / 70 / 72 / 74 / 75 / 76 / 81 / 85 / 96 🚲 Nearby Vélib stations.
📍Bpi – Public Information Library, 19 Rue Beaubourg, 75004 Paris.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1/5 on Google Review
#7 : Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie’s Library
Head over to the heart of Parc de la Villette to discover a unique venue: the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. This knowledge-rich place is sure to satisfy if you’re fond of impressive landmarks.
Established in 1986, this audacious building consists of vast open spaces, blending glass and steel. This architectural marvel encompasses a multitude of scientific resources: over 4,000 books and magazines are offered to you. You can also partake in workshops offered by the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. Everything is designed to immerse you in the mysteries of science.
Access to the library of the Cité des Sciences is free of charge. Membership is free, granting you access to a digital counter where you’ll find a plethora of online resources.
Pros: Working in a landmark of knowledge
Cons: Popular library so be sure to book in advance
Opening hours: Tue. to Sun. 12pm – 6:45pm 🕧 Closed on Mondays
Price: Free for on-site consultation, booking strongly recommended
Access: Metro lines 5 and 7 🚏 Bus 139 / 150 / 152 🚲 Nearby vélib stations
📍 Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie’s Library, Parc de la Villette, 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris
⭐⭐⭐ 3.2/5 on Google Review
#8 : Forney Library
Student and a fan of art and design?! If you’re looking for a unique spot in the capital to fuel your projects, you’ve stumbled upon a gem. Head over to the 4th arrondissement, near the Seine riverbanks on the right bank to discover this treasure.
It’s precisely in the Hôtel de Sens, a Gothic jewel at the heart of the Marais, that the Forney Library is located. Founded in 1886 by a wine merchant of the same name, Samuel Aimé Forney, it houses one of the richest collections: 230,000 volumes and catalogs of all kinds, over 150,000 exhibition and art catalogs, and countless other journals, iconographies, and advertising posters. An endless source of inspiration that you can consult by taking one of the 120 available spots to ignite your creativity.
In addition to its physical treasures and paper assets, the Forney Library offers its visitors, and you if you choose to go, the opportunity to enhance their learning with beautiful exhibitions freely accessible to all adults (or at least high school graduates). All you need is a card, renewable every year. This card also grants you access to all the other Parisian libraries within the circle of the Libraries of the City of Paris. So, are you ready to step in?
Pros: The library for art fans, and it’s free!
Cons: The opening hours don’t offer much flexibility.
Opening hours: Tue. – Fri. 11am – 7pm 🕧 Sat. 12pm – 7pm 🕧 Sun. – Mon. closed
Price: Free
Access: Metro lines 1 and 7 🚏 Bus 67 / 72
📍 Forney Library, 1 Rue du Figuier, 75004 Paris
#9 : Institut du Monde Arabe’s Library
Take a little detour to the left bank of the Seine, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Just a stone’s throw away from the Jussieu University is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks: the Institut du Monde Arabe! It’s a perfect spot if you plan to study there (or if you’re already studying there).
It’s here that this remarkable edifice stands: a perfect blend of the East and the West, adorned with a unique façade decorated with mechanical mashrabiyas, traditional to Arab culture. An architectural jewel that is the product of contemporary innovation and Eastern traditions.
Founded in 1980, the IMA celebrates all the riches of Arab culture. On the scale of the magnificent museum it houses, its library is a treasure in itself. It gathers thousands of physical and digital resources, touching on history, literature, and even the art of the Arab world. The library is open to everyone, whether you’re a student or just curious. However, specialized researchers and academics do have a privileged spot, so make sure to reserve one of the 150 seats. They’re in high demand!
If you wish to quench your thirst for knowledge, events, workshops, and exhibitions are regularly organized, so don’t wait any longer!
Pros: An iconic place, especially if you’re studying at the Jussieu University.
Cons: Limited seating, so you’ll need to be crafty to get yours.
Opening hours: Tue. – Sun. 1pm – 7pm 🕧 Mon. closed
Price: Free
Access: Metro lines 7 and 10 🚏 Bus 63 / 67 / 86 / 87 / 89 🚲 Nearby vélib stations
📍 Institut du Monde Arabe, 1 Rue des Fossés saint Bernard, 75005 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐🪐 4.4/5 on Google Review
#10 : La Grange-Fleuret Musical Library
Calling all musicology students! Ready for an immersion in the heart of the 8th arrondissement of Paris, in a place where classical music and opera come to life?
Visit 11 bis rue de Vézelay, where the La Grange-Fleuret Musical Library is located, founded in 1986. Formerly known as the Mahler Musical Media Library, it pays tribute to its founders Henry-Louis de La Grange and Maurice Fleuret. This institution has plenty of treasures waiting for you to discover.
Housed in a splendid mansion renovated in 2021, you will find over 100,000 music resources. Books, sound recordings, vinyl and CDs, as well as digital documents: everything is catalogued to help you deepen your knowledge on the subject.
The La Grange-Fleuret Music Library contains several spaces to suit all your needs. A quiet corner to listen or study? A large reading room has been specially designed. Want to satisfy your boundless curiosity? The treasure room contains documents of incredible rarity for your information and a studio to bring all your artistic projects to life.
All of this comes at a price, and it’s not free. However, the establishment wanted to offer rates accessible to all budgets: 40€ for an annual pass and 25€ if you’re a student under 35 years old. The Alfred-Cortot studio is available for residency at 70€ for 3 nights, in addition to the annual subscription.
The Mahler Musical Media Library is waiting just for you to share your passion for music with other members!
Pros: A perfect library for music enthusiasts with a dedicated studio.
Cons: If you’re not a musicologist or your thesis doesn’t cover the subject, you won’t have any interest in going there.
Opening hours: Tue. – Sat. 10am – 6pm 🕧 Sun. – Mon. closed
Price: 25€ to 40€ for an annual pass
Access: Metro lines 2, 3, 9, and 13 🚏 Bus 20 / 28 / 30 / 80 / 84 / 93
📍 La Grange-Fleuret Music Library, 11 bis Rue de Vézelay, 75008 Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 on Google Review
However, if you rather like to work from home, for comfort or simply because you like being in your own bubble, know that you can find this comfort in our co-living apartments. Indeed, each of our Parisian rooms is equipped with a workspace and high-speed internet connection so you can work in the best possible conditions!
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