Best Bookstores & Libraries in Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
1. Library of Lyon - BNU
Central library with a vast collection and digital resources, offering a serene environment for study.
- Extensive Collection: Houses over 1.5 million books and documents.
- Digital Resources: Access to online databases, e-books, and multimedia resources.
- Study Spaces: Multiple quiet study areas available.
2. Médiathèque de la Confluence
Modern library located at the heart of the Confluence district, with a panoramic view over the Rhône.
- Panoramic View: Offers a breathtaking sight of the Rhone river.
- Multimedia Resources: Provides digital resources, such as e-books and multimedia content.
- Events and Workshops: Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions for all ages.
3. L'Abbaye de la Bussière
12th-century abbey turned library with a unique atmosphere and historical charm.
- Historical Setting: Set in an ancient Cistercian abbey.
- Collection Focus: Specializes in literature, art, and architecture.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the abbey for visitors.
4. Librairie Mollard
A renowned independent bookstore with a comprehensive collection and knowledgeable staff.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are passionate about books and always ready to offer recommendations.
- Comprehensive Collection: Carries an extensive range of books in various genres and languages.
- Events and Signings: Regular book signings, author events, and literary discussions.
5. Librairie Saint-Exupéry
Dedicated to the works of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, featuring rare editions and memorabilia.
- Rare Editions: Offers signed copies and first editions.
- Memorabilia: Sells Saint-Exupéry merchandise, postcards, and memorabilia.
- Study Area: A quiet area dedicated to studying the works of Saint-Exupéry.
6. Librairie La Pagode
Asian-themed bookstore with a focus on Eastern literature and culture.
- Eastern Literature: Specializes in Asian, Middle Eastern, and African literature.
- Language Courses: Offers language courses for popular Asian languages.
- Cultural Events: Regular cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions.
7. Librairie Le Comptoir des Livres
An intimate bookstore with a cozy atmosphere, selling both new and used books.
- Intimate Setting: Small, comfortable space perfect for browsing.
- Used Books: Sells used books at affordable prices.
- Book Recommendations: Staff offers personalized book recommendations.
8. Librairie Le Dôme
A historic bookstore located in the heart of Lyon, specializing in academic and scientific books.
- Academic Collection: Specializes in academic, scientific, and technical literature.
- Rare Books: Carries a collection of rare and out-of-print books.
- Study Spaces: Offers study spaces for students and researchers.
9. Librairie Le Cent Quatre
An eclectic bookstore with a focus on graphic novels, comics, and manga.
- Graphic Novels: Specializes in graphic novels, comics, and manga.
- Artist Signings: Regular signings by comic artists and illustrators.
- Comic Strip Exhibitions: Hosts exhibitions of original comic strip artworks.
10. Librairie La Vraie Valeur des Livres
A bookstore offering rare and antique books in various genres.
- Rare Books: Specializes in rare, antique, and out-of-print books.
- Book Restoration Services: Offers restoration services for old and damaged books.
- Expert Advice: Experts on hand to provide advice and appraisals.
11. Bibliothèque de la Martinière Lyon
A library located within a historic building with a rich cultural heritage.
- Historical Building: Set in the beautiful Martinière Lyon building.
- Multimedia Resources: Provides digital resources, such as e-books and multimedia content.
- Study Spaces: Multiple quiet study areas available.
12. Bibliothèque de la Tête d'Or
A large city library with a focus on education and lifelong learning.
- Educational Resources: Offers resources for self-study, language learning, and job search.
- Events and Workshops: Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions for all ages.
- Study Spaces: Multiple quiet study areas available.
13. Bibliothèque de la Guillotière
A neighborhood library with a focus on local history and culture.
- Local History Resources: Offers resources focusing on Lyon's history and culture.
- Language Learning Resources: Provides resources for language learning, including French as a foreign language.
- Events and Workshops: Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions focusing on local culture.
14. Bibliothèque de la Croix-Rousse
A library dedicated to the history of the historic silk weaving district.
- Local History Resources: Offers resources focusing on the history of the Croix-Rousse district.
- Language Learning Resources: Provides resources for language learning, including French as a foreign language.
- Events and Workshops: Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions focusing on the district's culture.
15. Bibliothèque Parthenay
A community library offering resources for all ages, including a children's section.
- Resources for All Ages: Offers resources for people of all ages, including children.
- Study Spaces: Multiple quiet study areas available.
- Children's Section: Dedicated section for children with a wide range of books and activities.