Background

Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville: A Literary Sanctuary in Paris

Explore Parisian history and knowledge at the serene Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville, a specialized public library with rich collections.

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The Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville (City Hall Library) is a public library specializing in social sciences, law, contemporary history, and Parisian documentation. Located within the Hôtel de Ville, it offers a serene space for research and literary exploration, housing a rich collection of documents related to the history and administration of Paris.

A brief summary to Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Access to the library is through the visitors' entrance of the Hôtel de Ville; a valid photo ID is required.
  • Note that some collections are stored offsite and require advanced notice for consultation.
  • Take advantage of the library's digitized collections, with over 15,000 images available online.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville is easily accessible via the Hôtel de Ville metro station, served by lines 1 and 11. From the station, it's a short walk to the Hôtel de Ville entrance. A single T+ ticket costs €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Notre Dame Cathedral, walk north along Rue de l'Hôtel de Ville for about 10 minutes. The library is located inside the Hôtel de Ville, with access via the main entrance. No additional costs are involved.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Paris. A short taxi ride from the Louvre Museum to the Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville will cost approximately €8 - €16, depending on traffic and time of day. There are no extra charges for luggage.

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Discover more about Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville

The Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville, formerly known as the Bibliothèque administrative de la Ville de Paris, is a treasure trove of knowledge and history, located within Paris's iconic Hôtel de Ville. Established in 1872 to replace the library destroyed in the 1871 fire during the Commune de Paris, it has since become a specialized public library renowned for its extensive collections in social sciences, law, contemporary history, and Parisian documentation. Inside, visitors can explore a vast array of resources, including publications from former French colonies, documents related to Parisian administration, and a significant collection of drawings and photographs dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. The library's reading room, designed by architect Édouard Deperthes, is a notable example of late 19th-century library architecture, featuring a light-filled space with clear oak decor. The library's collections also include official publications, legislative and regulatory documents, statistics, and publications from cities and departments. Today, the Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville continues to serve as a vital research hub and a repository of Parisian history, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past and present.

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