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This Parisian library houses a hidden courtyard

undefined undefined 20 mars 2025 undefined 17h00

The Editor

© Clément Dorval / Ville de Paris

Reading and lounging in the sun are two pastimes that definitely make up part of our favorite activities. And the good news is that there are places in Paris where you can combine both, like this little hidden library in the 15th district.

In Paris, as we know, culture is accessible at every street corner. With theaters scattered all over, hundreds of cinemas, and dozens of museums, Parisians have an abundance of choices to fill up on knowledge. Add to that the nearly 70 public libraries in the city, available 100% for free, and it makes the capital one of the most delightful cities in the world. Especially knowing that some of these places are hidden green gems right in the heart of the capital.


A safe that holds a precious treasure

At first glance, the Gutenberg Library may not seem very impressive. Built in 1991 by the architecture workshop Franck Hammoutène, it is designed...

like a gigantic block of black concrete, with a rather stern, even aggressive look, featuring steel bands that tower over the entrance. Yet, as the English so wisely say, « Don’t judge a book by its cover » (and when it comes to a library, we find this more fitting than clothes don’t make the man).

Because once you step inside, a whole other world opens up to you. Hundreds and hundreds of references spread across shelves along the walls, ready to delight you, no matter your age, your interests, or your preferred font size. However, we can see you coming with your “Yeah, it’s just a library, right?” What truly sets this place apart is its completely glass, circular inner courtyard.


A place for celebration and sharing

Indeed, at the center of the building, completely hidden from the street, there’s a little &island of freshness, a green patio crowned by a .magnificent tree, where the library teams don’t hesitate to grow flowers and aromatic plants. The perfect place to sit on a deckchair or gather around a table to devour the latest novel, or introduce your little cousin to the best comics from our childhood.

In addition to that, the Gutenberg library regularly organizes events and concerts, exhibitions, and even meetings with authors. These are moments of exchange in a bucolic setting right in the heart of the capital, perfect for filling up on reading, greenery, and good vibes as spring starts to peek around the corner!

Address: 8 Rue de la Montagne d'Aulas, 75015 Paris, France