American Library in Paris Information

The American Library in Paris is the largest English-language lending library on the European continent. The Library’s 3,000 members representing 60 countries enjoy access to 100,000 books, current and historical periodicals, audio-visual materials, plus extensive reference and research resources in paper and electronic form. Its signature programming includes children’s and teen activities, evening speakers, and book groups – all in a newly-renovated space near the Eiffel Tower. The Library was established in 1920 under the auspices of the American Library Association and the Library of Congress with a core collection of books and periodicals donated by American libraries to United States armed forces personnel serving their allies in World War I. It operates as a non-profit cultural association in France and is incorporated under the laws of Delaware. Our mission is: - To provide access in France to what is best in English-language books, periodicals, and other materials by sustaining and extending a varied and enduring collection. - To provide the services of a contemporary American public library. - To encourage and support reading in English by children and young adults. - To act as an educational support center for people of all ages on their pursuit of formal instruction or personal growth. - To promote better understanding between France and the United States by making available the artistic, historical, and business record of the American experience to an international audience.