American Library in Paris, English language library in 7th arrondissement of Paris, France.
The American Library in Paris is an English-language library in the 7th arrondissement, a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. Its rooms are spread across several floors and include reading areas, work desks, and a space used for events.
The library was founded in 1920 to supply reading materials to American soldiers who remained in France after the First World War. Over the following decades it grew into a lasting institution for the English-speaking community in Paris.
The library serves as a meeting point for English-speaking and French-speaking readers who come to borrow books or attend literary events. Author talks and reading groups are held regularly in English and draw a varied crowd.
Anyone wishing to borrow books or access digital resources will need a membership, though day visitors are also welcome to use the reading areas. It is worth checking the events calendar before visiting, as author talks and other programs fill up quickly.
During the German occupation in the Second World War, staff members hid books and quietly passed them on to Jewish community members who were at risk of persecution. These acts are still remembered today and are part of the library's story.
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