Best Bookstores & Libraries in Paris, France
1. Shakespeare & Company
Iconic English-language bookstore on the Seine, offering a literary atmosphere with free dorms for writers.
- Unique Feature: Historical significance as a haven for artists and writers since 1951
- Special Collection: Extensive collection of English books and manuscripts
- Writer's Haven: Offers temporary residence to writers from around the world
2. Bibliothèque Forney
Specializes in graphic arts and printing techniques with an impressive collection of rare books and artwork.
- Graphic Arts Focus: Dedicated to the history, technique, and theory of graphic arts
- Rare Collection: Houses a vast collection of books on printmaking, typography, and bookbinding
- Exhibitions: Regular exhibitions showcasing the work of prominent artists in graphic arts
3. Bibliothèque Mazarine
Paris' oldest public library, boasting an extensive collection of over 170,000 books.
- Historical Importance: Founded in 1643 and still preserving its historical atmosphere
- Rare Manuscripts: Houses numerous rare manuscripts, including the Magna Carta
- Art & History: Features art collections and historical documents related to France's past
4. Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF)
France's national library with a collection of over 15 million items and free access to the general public.
- National Library: Serves as France's primary cultural and scientific institution
- Diverse Collection: Includes manuscripts, printed books, maps, newspapers, music scores, and more
- Accessibility: Free access to the general public with limited borrowing options for members
5. Librairie Tsai-Hoa
Asia's largest bookstore outside of Asia, offering a wide selection of books in various Asian languages.
- Cultural Hub: Serves as a meeting place for Paris' Asian community
- Vast Selection: Offers books in multiple Asian languages, including Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.
- Language Courses: Provides language courses for various Asian languages
6. Librairie L'Archiduchesse
Intimate bookstore specializing in children's literature and educational toys.
- Children's Literature Focus: Dedicated to promoting children's literature
- Educational Toys: Offers a selection of educational toys for young readers
- Storytelling Sessions: Regular storytelling sessions for children
7. Librairie Bouillon Chartier
Historic bookstore located within a famous Parisian restaurant, offering books on various topics.
- Historical Setting: Set in a beautiful, centuries-old building with a rich history
- Variety of Books: Offers books on art, literature, history, and more
- Dining Experience: Bookstore is located within a popular restaurant known for its traditional French cuisine
8. Librairie des Champs-Élysées
Known for its beautiful Art Nouveau façade and extensive selection of books in various languages.
- Art Nouveau Architecture: Famous for its stunning, early 20th-century architecture
- Multilingual Collection: Offers books in multiple languages including French, English, and Spanish
- Cultural Programs: Regular events such as book signings, readings, and cultural programs
9. Librairie Galignani
The oldest English-language bookstore in Paris, offering a wide selection of books, newspapers, and stationery.
- Historical Significance: Established in 1802, one of the oldest English-language bookstores in the world
- English Books & Newspapers: Offers a wide selection of books and newspapers in English
- Stationery Selection: Features an extensive selection of high-quality stationery items
10. Librairie Saint-Simon
Bookstore specializing in art, photography, and design books with a beautiful interior design.
- Art Focus: Dedicated to the world of art, photography, and design
- Inspiring Interior Design: Featuring a beautifully designed interior that reflects the books it sells
- Expert Advice: Knowledgeable staff providing expert advice on art, photography, and design
11. Librairie Antiquaire Didier Aaron
Antique bookstore specializing in rare and precious books, manuscripts, and artifacts.
- Rare Books & Manuscripts: Specializes in rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts
- Expertise & Authentication: Provides expertise and authentication services for collectors
- Private Consultations: Offers private consultations by appointment for serious collectors
12. Librairie de la Belle Hortense
Cozy bookstore with a bar and restaurant serving cocktails and food, offering books on various topics.
- Unique Combination: Combines a bookstore, bar, and restaurant in one location
- Variety of Books: Offers books on art, literature, history, and more
- Evening Events: Regular evening events such as author readings and book signings
13. Librairie Le Haut-Pavé
Bookstore specializing in French literature, philosophy, and politics with a focus on contemporary works.
- French Focus: Dedicated to contemporary French literature, philosophy, and politics
- Expert Recommendations: Knowledgeable staff providing expert recommendations on contemporary works
- Cultural Discussions: Regular cultural discussions and events centered around French literature
14. Librairie des Rosiers
A historic Jewish bookstore offering books in Hebrew, Yiddish, and French on various topics.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest Jewish bookstores in Paris
- Language Selection: Offers books in Hebrew, Yiddish, and French
- Jewish Culture & History: Features a wide selection of books on Jewish culture and history
15. Mediateca de la Embajada de España
Spanish cultural center featuring a library with books in Spanish, as well as exhibitions and events.
- Cultural Center: Serves as a hub for Spanish culture in Paris
- Spanish Language Collection: Offers books in Spanish on various topics
- Exhibitions & Events: Regular exhibitions and events celebrating Spanish culture and arts