American Library in Paris Book Groups
Engage in stimulating conversation about books in an informal environment.
Our book groups offer a wide variety of titles, from biographies, novels and well-known classics to recent prize-winning novels.
Groups are completely volunteer-led and run from September to July each academic year.
To propose a group of your own, please send a formal proposal (including group title, description, a selection of books and proposed dates) to bookgroups@americanlibraryinparis.org.
You can subscribe to e-Libris, the Library’s electronic newsletter for updates on book groups.
There is no additional fee for participating in a book groups, but you must be a member of the American Library in Paris. Space is limited, so members are expected to do their best to attend all meetings rather than just dropping in occasionally.
To sign up for a book group, please follow this link. You will be contacted by the group‘s leaders with more information to prepare for your first session.
Book Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Book groups are organized at the Library’s initiative and led by experienced Library volunteers. Book group leaders — and participants — have broad discretion on how they unfold.
Yes, all book group members must be members of the American Library in Paris. You can learn more about membership and sign up on our membership page.
Book groups on different topics/themes are offered two times a year (once in September and again January) and meet once a month. Book group meetings take place in the Library unless otherwise advertised.
Please come to the first session prepared to discuss the chosen book. Arriving a few minutes early will allow everyone to become acquainted. If you will not be present, please inform your book group leader, as others may be on a waiting list.
The Library does not provide snacks or beverages for book groups. No food or drinks are allowed for book groups that take place in the Library’s conference room, however, participants are welcome to bring refreshments or snacks for book groups that take place in other Library spaces. Everyone is responsible for clean-up in Library spaces, including the kitchen.
Please fill out this form to request to join any book group.
You can expect to hear back from us within a few days of submitting the form about whether your chosen group has space– all groups operate on a first come, first serve basis.
You will then receive emails directly from the leaders of your chosen group providing details regarding books and future meetings.
Yes. If you are not yet a Library member but would like to participate in one of our book groups, please join the Library before the first session of your selected group or be prepared (and leave enough time) to join or renew at the first session (check/cash/credit card, photo ID and proof of residence required).
Any additional questions about book groups can be sent to bookgroups@americanlibraryinparis.org.