Discover the Oval Paradise: A New Literary Gem in Paris
In the heart of Paris, a remarkable public library named the Oval Paradise has opened its doors, promising a haven for both local citizens and visiting bibliophiles. This impressive facility, restored over a meticulous 12-year period with a budget of €261 million, is part of the historic Bibliothèque Nationale de France’s Richelieu site.
Now that the last of its reading rooms has been unveiled, visitors are greeted with a breathtaking space ideal for reading, working, studying, or simply daydreaming. This stunning venue distinguishes itself from other library areas, as the Oval Room (Salle Ovale) is freely accessible to the general public.
Since its unveiling last September, the Oval Paradise has rapidly become an architectural highlight within Paris. Natural light streams through a monumental glass ceiling, illuminating a vast collection of 20,000 books focused on French art, history, and literature. Visitors are encouraged to explore these literary treasures, as reading and enjoyment are entirely free.
For comic enthusiasts, the library has a delightful surprise: nearly 9,000 of its held volumes consist of comic books and graphic novels, representing the largest collection of its kind in France.
If you’re working or studying, you will appreciate the long tables at the center of the room, which are equipped with free Wi-Fi and charging outlets. Alternatively, you can find comfort in an armchair or on a bench, allowing for quiet, undisturbed reading in one of Paris’s most beautiful public spaces.
The refreshing redesign of the library coincides with the site’s 300-year anniversary, which intriguingly includes the newly opened Mazarin Gallery. This gallery showcases 900 highlights from the library’s extensive collection, including ancient maps, stamps, and manuscripts.
Once your reading session is complete, you may want to explore the museum section, where you can find awe-inspiring artifacts like Victor Hugo’s original manuscript for Les Misérables, Mozart’s handwritten score for Don Giovanni, and handwritten pages from Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time.
The Best Places in Paris for Reading
The reopening of the Oval Room enhances the already rich literary culture of Paris. This city is home to numerous idyllic reading spots, ranging from historic cafés and bookshops that were once favored by literary icons to cozy spaces perfect for enjoying a new discovery. Below are some notable locations to lose yourself in literature:
Shakespeare and Company
Founded in 1951 by American expat George Whitman, Shakespeare and Company is steeped in literary history. This charming bookstore pays tribute to the legacy of Sylvia Beach, whose earlier establishment was a gathering place for renowned writers such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Upon entering the shop, patrons may browse the aisles and continue upstairs to reading rooms furnished with vintage books available for enjoyment. The establishment has a strict no-photography policy, ensuring an undistracted ambience for diving into literature.
Place des Vosges
Among Paris’s many gardens, Place des Vosges stands out not only for its serene beauty but also for its literary significance. It was the residence of Victor Hugo, the author of monumental works such as Les Misérables. This iconic square, with its lovely linden trees and park benches, is perfect for reading in both sunshine and shade.
L’eau et les rêves
Nestled away from the bustling tourist traps, L’eau et les rêves offers a tranquil retreat for readers. This floating café and bookshop boasts a scenic view of the canal, making it ideal for leisurely reading sessions. The café serves a selection of beverages and meals, ensuring a delightful experience as you enjoy your reading material.
La Belle Hortense
This intimate literary wine bar combines the pleasures of literature and fine wines. Arriving early increases your chances of securing a prime reading spot while savoring a glass of exquisite wine. An appealing selection of novels, biographies, and poetry occupies the shelves, creating a cozy environment for reading.
Café de Flore
Café de Flore, though frequented by tourists, remains an essential literary location with a legacy that includes figures like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Visitors can immerse themselves in the café’s atmosphere, enjoying a hot chocolate while reading an engaging piece of literature, just as writers did in the past.
