Bibliothèque François Mitterrand

© Maxim Ivanov

The Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, also known as the National Library of France, is a modern landmark in Paris located on the banks of the Seine river in the 13th arrondissement. It is named after the former President of France who initiated the project, and it was built in 1995.

The library complex consists of four L-shaped towers, covered in glass and steel, symbolizing open books on shelves, reflecting its purpose as a repository of knowledge and culture.

© BnF

The library houses extensive collections of books, manuscripts, maps, prints, and multimedia materials, making it one of the largest and most important libraries in the world. Today, it stands as a symbol of France's commitment to preserving and promoting knowledge in the digital age, offering a blend of architectural elegance and intellectual richness in the heart of Paris.

Did you know?

To celebrate the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand is presenting an exhibition titled "À nous les stades!", on the history of women's sports in France since the late 19th century. Once regarded as lesser in the realm of sports, women's athletics have progressively gained significance over the past century and a half. This exhibit chronicles the highs and lows of this dynamic history, which also reflects the evolving status of women in France.