Bibliotheque Nationale de France, Paris
Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Address: Quai Francois-Mauriac 75706 Paris
Arrondissement: 13th
Hours: 9:00am – 8:00pm although some certain rooms hours may vary.
Tickets: Exhibition 7EUR; exhibition reduced rate 5EUR; lecture guided tour 4.5EUR
WWW: Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Phone: 33(0)1 53 79 59 59
About the Bibliotheque Nationale de France
The new Bibliothequq Nationale de France, translated to the National Library of France, was built in 1996. It is also known as Francois Mitterrand Library. It replaced the old library that was dubbed insufficient for all of France’s literary treasures.
The idea of a new building was proposed by France’s 1980’s President Francois Mitterrand who was known for his love of grand structures. The suggestion was applauded by all of Paris and so construction began under the watchful eye of architect Dominque Perrault.
Perrault’s concept of four 24 story towers, all of which are shaped like an open book and overlook an extraordinary center garden, is impressive. It was what anyone’s imagination would think a library to be and is able to take readers out of the busy city and into a world of fantasy. Perrault’s ideas went against the grain of the typical dingy, dungeon like library. The large, open, airy reading rooms have many windows to provide extra light for readers who sit on the contemporary yet comfortable variety of wooden furniture. The library can hold an upwards of 1,600 people at once making it one of the largest public libraries in the world.
From the library and its contents springs a strong source of pride felt by the people of France. Nearly 10 million important historical documents are available to qualified experts for viewing, some of which date all the way back to medieval times. The library attracts researchers from near and far. Although the public does not have access to some of the most precious archives, they do have admission to nearly 200,000 books and thousands upon thousands of periodicals. The library also takes part in special events such as temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops and even the occasional performing arts concert.
Getting to Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Library visitors can find there way by way of metro line 6’s Quai de la Gare station.
Bibliotheque Nationale de France Hotels
Here is a short guide to hotels near Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Located at 28 Bis Bd Diderot, Hotel Helvetia, is located near the library as well as other wonderful attractions like the Bastille and the Marais districts. The hotel pays special attention to guests, offering a warm welcome and an ultra smart price. Rates start at a low 47EUR per night for a twin room with a shower.
The 3 star Logis de France Claret Bercy, located at 44 Bd De Bercy, is charming with its bright mix of colors combined with old French country flair. The former post house, the Claret hotel offers a fine restaurant which pays homage to the olden days of Bercy. It is located close to the library as well as other attractions such as Bercy Village and the Palais Omnisports complex. Rates start at 70EUR per night for a single room.
Four star Le Marceau Bastille is located at 13 rue Jules Cesar. The hotel has recently been renovated to reveal up to date comforts in combination with an artsy charm. Located in the heart of the energetic Bastille District, the atmosphere that surrounds the hotel only adds to an unforgettable stay. Rates start at 131EUR per night for a single room.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
