In addition to the lending libraries, there are 16 heritage and specialized libraries, open to all, with an exceptional wealth of documentation (6.5 million documents) thanks to the originality and rarity of their collections, some of which benefit from first-rate architectural surroundings.
An exceptional documentary network
The variety of fields covered and the originality and rarity of their collections make Paris' specialized libraries an exceptional documentary network.
Open to the public, they offer access to a unique heritage and top-level specialized documentation in extremely diverse fields: architecture and urban planning; cinema, television and video art; law and social sciences; history; art history; literary history; detective fiction; children's literature; the book trade; music; theater; tourism and travel; feminist and gender history.
Sign up
Access to the City of Paris' specialized and heritage libraries is open to anyone of legal age or holding a baccalaureate who wishes to research the collections.
Registration is by presentation:
- valid proof of identity (national identity card, passport, driver's license, residence permit)
- family record book for minors
- a professional card for City of Paris employees registering with the Bibliothèque de l'Hôtel de Ville (BHdV).
This form, duly signed, will be kept at the library for archiving purposes (remember to keep a copy).
Minors can be accommodated in certain establishments.
Please note: if you wish to visit the Town Hall Library, please bring your identity card with you.
A library card will be issued to all new users, giving them access to the entire network of Paris special libraries.
Document consultation
All libraries offer on-site consultation. Some libraries lend out part of their collections:
Other specialized libraries
The central library of the conservatories of the City of Paris
On-site consultation is open to all (no photocopying).
Loans are reserved for students and teachers at Paris municipal conservatories and the CNR, as well as music teachers at Paris schools.
For 3 years, it remains open to former students and teachers of these conservatories.
How to register for a loan: students must show their conservatory card, and teachers must show their professional card or conservatory certificate. Former students or teachers must provide their old card and proof of address.
The Maison de Balzac library
Free on-site consultation on presentation of ID. Information by post. Access to the library is via the museum.
The library at the Maison de Victor Hugo
By appointment only - consultation on site. Located in the Hôtel de Rohan-Guéménée, which houses the Maison de Victor Hugo, the library is above the apartment where Victor Hugo lived from 1832 to 1848.
The Galliera Specialized Library
Open to researchers, teachers, students (universities, fashion schools), fashion and entertainment professionals. By appointment only, call 01 56 52 86 48. Access to the library is via the museum.
The Archives Library
Open to all (with proof of identity), the library offers on-site consultation, information by correspondence and a photocopying service for unbound books. On Saturdays, use of the library is restricted to usuals, microfilms and original documents reserved no later than the previous Wednesday.