Bibliotheque Sainte-Genevieve

Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève is one of Paris's most beautiful and historic libraries, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter opposite the Panthéon. Its magnificent reading room, with its ironwork arches and long wooden tables, is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, inspired by the reading room of the British Museum. The library houses over two million documents, including rare manuscripts, maps, and prints, with a strong focus on humanities and social sciences. Visitors can explore the public areas, including the grand staircase and the exhibition hall, which hosts rotating displays. The atmosphere is hushed and scholarly, attracting students and researchers from the nearby Sorbonne. Even if you're not a cardholder, you can admire the architecture during open hours or attend special events. It's a must-see for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

Don't miss

• Admire the iconic reading room with its cast-iron columns and arched ceiling
• View temporary exhibitions in the ground-floor gallery
• See the library's collection of medieval manuscripts and rare books
• Walk up the grand staircase with its wrought-iron balustrade
• Explore the Latin Quarter and visit the nearby Panthéon

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Bibliotheque Sainte-Genevieve

Cheapest way inNotre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie Walking Tour5★ · 19 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedLouvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Access4.5★ · 12,902 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleLes Puces de Saint Ouen Flea Market Private Tour in Paris4.9★ · 24 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$155 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Keep noise to a minimum; the library is a quiet study space.
• Photography is allowed in public areas but not in the reading room without permission.
• Bring ID if you wish to apply for a library card.
• Large bags must be left in lockers (free).

A bit of history

Founded in the 16th century as the library of the Abbey of Sainte-Geneviève, it was reopened in its current building in 1851, designed by Henri Labrouste. It was one of the first libraries to use an iron frame, a revolutionary feature at the time.