The American Library in Paris is the largest English-language lending library on the European continent. The Library’s 4,000 members representing 60 countries enjoy access to 100,000 books, current and historical periodicals, audio-visual materials, plus extensive reference and research resources in paper and electronic form. Its signature programming includes children’s and teen activities, evening speakers, and book groups – all in a newly-renovated space near the Eiffel Tower.

The Library was established in 1920 under the auspices of the American Library Association and the Library of Congress with a core collection of books and periodicals donated by American libraries to United States armed forces personnel serving their allies in World War I. It operates as a non-profit cultural association in France and is incorporated under the laws of Delaware.

Volunteers are the heart of the American Library in Paris. More than seventy volunteers donate their time and talents at any given time to provide valuable assistance to our staff and patrons of the Library all year round. Our volunteers range in age from young adults to seniors. Work assignments are available weekdays, evenings, and weekends and we ask for a commitment of 4 months. It’s a great way to meet new people and put your talents to excellent use.

If you are interested in joining the Library volunteer team, please check out our website for more information.

Tickets for our annual Halloween Extravaganza go on sale for Library members on Tuesday 1 October at the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk of the Library (available anytime during open hours). If tickets remain, they will go on sale for non-members beginning on Tuesday 15 October. Last year all of our events were sold out, so we recommend purchasing your tickets early. Members may purchase an additional two tickets for non-member guests, but the non-member fee applies.

You can see the full program and details about purchasing tickets here, and the flyer for the event is here.