Baptized Billyotheque, in tribute to its famous shelf, the Swedish furniture brand Ikea invites you to join in for 5 days to chat about your favorite books and discover the gem of the summer. This initiative is organized with Le Livre de Poche and the association Libraries Without Borders, aiming to re-emphasize the importance of reading, while also promoting access to culture for everyone.
A gathering for all
The project is simple: to set up a 30-meter long library along the quays, making reading more inclusive. On meters of shelves, there will be books of all genres suitable for all ages, and most importantly, they will be available for free access.
Only guideline: to pick up a book, you must leave one behind. The deal is simple, one book for one book, to keep the references flowing for a week.IKEA transforme Paris en bibliothèque à ciel ouverthttps://t.co/LH7g7tiCTq
— Xuoan (@xuoan) July 10, 2025
From graphic novels, mangas, comics, children's literature, classics to essays, you'll be spoiled for choice to find a book to devour on the beach. And if the sheer number of choices makes you a bit anxious, don’t worry, advisors will be on hand all day, from 10 AM to 8 PM, to guide you and help you discover the perfect book for you. To top it all off, all remaining books will be collected at the end of the week by the association Bibliothèques Sans Frontières.
A Mixed-Feelings Event
Even though we fully support the initiative on paper, we can't help but wonder if this whole thing is orchestrated solely to polish the brand's image a bit. Just a reminder, for the past few months, Ikea is in a bit of trouble, facing several accusations, particularly regarding working conditions, the source of materials, and issues of forced labor. It’s not certain that this library would be enough to make up for everything, but it’s a good start.
On a tous galéré au moins une fois à monter un meuble IKEA.
— Brut FR (@brutofficiel) April 22, 2024
Toutes les 5 secondes, une bibliothèque Billy se vend dans le monde. Mais l'enseigne suédoise serait aussi responsable de l'abattement de 1 % des forêts chaque année. Voici l'histoire d'IKEA. pic.twitter.com/ILGMfYUXN8
Giant Library
Train Station Quay – 13th Arrondissement
From July 22 to 27
Free Access