The American Library in Paris

Story Hour: Yummy Stories (ages 3–5)
2022-03-30 14:30 (Europe/Paris)
Story Hour:
Yummy Stories

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, put on something green, and enjoy picture books, songs and rhymes all about food, including Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C.G. Esperanza. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty McCulloch Reid, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels, and Library Intern Pallas-Amenah Morgan. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Register here

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Children in the Library Policy

Donate to the Library

Paris: A City of Art (ages 6–12)
2022-04-02 11:00 - 12:00
Paris: A City of Art

For ages 6–12

Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste and volunteers in the Children’s Library to learn about the iconic paintings, sculptures, and monuments of Paris, and to find out about the symbolism in a few famous pieces of art. Then, enjoy a reading of Dan’s Angel: a Detective’s Guide to the Language of Painting by Alexander Sturgis and Lauren Child and try our quiz to see what you’ve learned!
Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Paper Flower Crafts (ages 6–12)
2022-04-09 11:00 - 12:00
Paper Flower Crafts

For ages 6–12

Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern Pallas-Amenah and Library volunteers in the Children’s Library to make paper flowers and flower bouquets to take home!
Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2022-04-14 11:00 - 11:30
for ages 1–3
Toddler Time

This interactive program features songs, rhymes and stories in English for the very young. Books featured during our Toddler Time events include short picture books and board books such as Maisy Grows a Garden. Our Toddler Time is for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers. The program lasts 30 minutes and this session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. In compliance with French regulations, please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.
Donate to the Library

Storytelling with Sylvia Mombo (ages 6–12)
2022-04-16 11:00 - 12:00
Storytelling with Sylvie Mombo

For ages 6–12

During this special event, professional storyteller Sylvie Mombo will share her stories with participants, then talk about her process hunting down great tales and preparing them to share. Children and their families are invited to join in and participate in these interactive stories!

About Sylvie Mombo: Born in Paris, Sylvie inherited a love of words and a passion for sharing stories from her Gabonese and Guadeloupean parents. Before becoming a professional storyteller, she had many careers: librarian, dancer, and teacher. Through these experiences, and through working with artists such as Irène Tassembedo Malien (choreographer), Thomas Leabart (American mime artist/actor), Philippe Adrien (director), and Gilles Bizouerne (storyteller) Sylvie developed an original style of storytelling, which is a mix of mime, dance, and comedy. Find out more about Sylvie here.

Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Surprises Galore (ages 3–5)
2022-04-20 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Surprises Galore!

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books, songs and rhymes full of surprises, including Once Upon a Rainy Day by Edouard Monceau. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. For this Story Hour, visiting flutists Leonard Garrison and Shannon Scott will read several stories and accompany them with music. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program. Guests Leonard Garrison and Shannon Scott will join us for this story hour, to read and provide musical accompaniment.

Register here

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Children in the Library Policy

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: I Love Our Earth (ages 3–5)
2022-04-27 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
I Love Our Earth

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books all about planet earth, including 10 Things I Can Do To Help My Earth by Melanie Walsh. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty McCulloch Reid, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels, and Library Intern Pallas-Amenah Morgan. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2022-04-28 11:00 - 11:30
for ages 1–3
Toddler Time

This interactive program features songs, rhymes and stories in English for the very young. Books featured during our Toddler Time events include short picture books and board books such as This is Not My Hat by John Klassen. Our Toddler Time is for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers. The program lasts 30 minutes and this session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.
Donate to the Library

Spring Egg-stravaganza (ages 0–12)
2022-04-30 11:00 - 12:00
Spring Egg-Stravaganza

all ages!

Celebrate spring with tories and trivia, followed by an egg-tastic hunt in the Library and craft-making! Learn about spring symbols during this event full of facts, fiction, and fun!
Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied at all times for the duration of this event. Children aged 6–12 may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here for the 11h00 event

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

2022 Read-a-Thon (ages 0–18)
2022-05-01 - 2022-05-07
The 2022 Read-a-Thon
The American Library in Paris and Message Paris are organizing a Read-A-Thon to encourage vacation reading, and raise funds for the American Library in Paris!

The American Library in Paris and Message Paris are organizing a Read-A-Thon to encourage vacation reading, and to raise funds for the Library! This event is open to children and teens who are members of Message Paris or The American Library in Paris. Over a 1-week period, participants are encouraged to read as much as possible and collect donations based on the number of minutes that they read!

WHY READ FOR THE AMERICAN LIBRARY IN PARIS?
Donations will be used to support the American Library in Paris, a non-profit English language Library founded in 1920, and the largest English-language lending library on the European continent! It is a place where people gather to explore ideas, build community and connect with other English speakers. As a non-profit, we count on your donations to continue to provide programs, books and services for the English-language community. All participants who turn in a completed Read-a-Thon pack and a donation from at least one sponsor will be entered into a prize drawing. Prizes will be awarded for top readers in each of the following categories: ages 0–3, ages 4–8, ages 9–12, and ages 12–18.

ABOUT MESSAGE PARIS:
Message Paris is the largest association for English-speaking parents and parents-to-be in France! It is an entirely volunteer-run, independent, non-profit association that provides a social and support network to expectant women, new mothers and fathers, and parents of children of all ages. Message Paris is proud to bring you this Read-A-Thon in conjunction with the American Library in Paris! Learn more at www.messageparis.org.

How to participate:

Register for the 2022 Read-a-Thon! Register using the link below.

Download your Read-a-Thon materials. Download your reading log once it is sent to the email address provided.
Find sponsors (like family and friends) who will pledge (or promise!) a certain amount of money for every reading challenge that you complete (for example: 1€ per hour).
Write your sponsors on your pledge sheet. Add each sponsor’s name, address, and pledge amount to your pledge sheet.
1–7 May: Read! Keep a log of your reading! The more you read the more you raise for the Library!
Collect your pledges.
Tell your friends and family how much you read, and collect your pledges (promised donations).
Submit your pledge sheet at the Library or by email by Saturday 14 May at 14h00.
Turn in donations online or in-person at the Library by Saturday 14 May at 14h00.
Attend our finale celebration on Saturday 14 May at 14h00 to find out the top readers, and raffle winners, to meet other bookworms, and collect your certificate of participation!

Register here

Click here to submit a donation for your champion reader

Read-A-Thon is open to members of the American Library in Paris and Message Paris. Please register to participate and download your Read-a-Thon pack.

Story Hour in the Park (ages 3–5)
2022-05-11 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour in the Park
For ages 3–5

3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books outdoors on the Champs de Mars. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads, and Volunteer Mary Wessels. For this Story Hour, visiting flutist Leonard Garrison and clarinetist Shannon Scott will read several stories and accompany them with music. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

This Story Hour event will be held outside on the Champs de Mars (weather permitting) for a small group. Registered participants will be sent information about where to meet a day before the event. Registration closes 24 hours before the event. In the event of rain, this event will be held in the Children’s Library, and depending on government regulations and safety recommendations, we will accept participants on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Poetry with Scott Hobbs Bourne (ages 6–12)
2022-05-14 11:00 - 12:00
Poetry with Scott Hobbs Bourne

For ages 6–12

Join Scott Hobbs Bourne, author of An Act of Imagination for an interactive poetry workshop. Bourne will read several poems from his book, and brainstorm ideas with the group before leading participants in the creation of their own poems. Read more about Bourne’s book of poetry here.
Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

About the authors of An Act of Imagination: Scott Bourne and Todd Bratrud met in 1998. Scott was skateboarding professionally and Todd had just become the art director at Consolidated Skateboards, one of the companies who sponsored Scott. A friendship quickly sparked over ideas and illustrations. Since then, Todd has created graphics for nearly every major skateboard company and several shoes in collaboration with Nike. He calls Grand Forks home, working from his studio and running an independent skateboard brand called SEND HELP. Scott began his writing career with a monthly column in Slap skateboard magazine. Since then, he has published a novel, a book of short stories, several journals and a trilogy of poems. His poetry has been put to score by American composer Shinji Eshima, which premiered at San Francisco Opera Lab in April of 2016. Scott now lives in Paris. The short poems collected in the book are inspired by his two children.
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Magical Friends (ages 3–5)
2022-05-18 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Magical Friends

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books all about magical creatures, including A Unicorn Named Sparkle by Amy Young. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Roald Dahl Book Club (ages 8–12)
2022-05-22 14:00 - 15:00
Roald Dahl Book Club

For ages 8–12

Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty and volunteers in the Children’s Library to read, play games, and answer trivia as you explore the work of Roald Dahl!
Each child (aged 8–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Wonderful Weather (ages 3–5)
2022-05-25 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Wonderful Weather

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books all about magical creatures, including Are You Ready to Play Outside? by Mo Willems. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty McCulloch Reid, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Please note: masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Riddle Me This: Creating Jokes (ages 6–12)
2022-06-04 11:00 - 12:00
Riddle Me This: Creating Jokes

For ages 6–12

Come along to the Children’s Library to learn about riddles and jokes. Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste and volunteers as we learn how to tell American knock-knock jokes, and then create your own jokes in classic formats working with idioms and homonyms.

Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Worry-free (ages 3–5)
2022-06-08 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Worry-free

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books all about worries and anxiety, including Catching Thoughts by Bonnie Clark, illustrated by Summer Macon. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Young Authors Fiction Festival Celebration 2022
2022-06-10 18:00 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
The 2022 Young Authors Fiction Festival culminates with a celebration event on Friday 10 June 2022 at the American Library in Paris. Come join us as we celebrate the stories that were selected for top honors and all the young authors who participated in this year’s YAFF. Each finalist will be awarded a certificate and personalised bookmark. YAFF celebration booklets with the stories of all the 1st to 5th place winners will be available for 15€ per booklet at the celebration event.

The YAFF celebration event is in two parts: lower grades and upper grades.
Lower Grades 18h00-19h00: The finalists in the lower grades (CP/1st – CM2/5th Grade) are asked to arrive for registration at 17h45, with the ceremony beginning at 18h00.
Upper Grades 19h30-20h30: The finalists in the upper grades (6ème/6th Grade – Terminale/12th Grade) are asked to arrive for registration at 19h15, with the ceremony beginning at 19h30.
Please RSVP here

About the Young Authors Fiction Festival
The American Library in Paris is proud to be the organizer of the Young Authors Fiction Festival. YAFF aims to strengthen community among English-speakers in the Paris area through the art and craft of storytelling. YAFF is open to all students ages 5 to 18 in the greater Paris area who write in English. Submission to YAFF 2022 closed on 1 April 2022. For more information about YAFF please visit americanlibraryinparis.org/yaff/
For questions regarding the YAFF celebration event, please contact the YAFF team at yaff@americanlibraryinparis.org.

The Library would like to thank the sponsors of YAFF 2022: The British Council in France, Marymount International School Paris and Union School, a new bilingual school opening in September 2022.

Storm Science (ages 6–12)
2022-06-11 11:00 - 12:00
Storm Science

For ages 6–12

Join Front of House Assistant Pallas-Amenah in crafting your very own mini tornado using tools and ingredients you can find in your home, and learn about the swirling winds of a tornado’s vortex!
Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Here Come the Aliens (ages 3–5)
2022-06-15 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Here Come the Aliens

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, enjoy picture books all about aliens, including There’s an Alien in Your Book by Tom Fletcher. This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Kirsty McCulloch Reid, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Summer Reading Challenge (all ages)
2022-06-18 14:00 - 15:00
Summer Reading Challenge

For children and teens of all ages

How does the Children’s Summer Reading Challenge work?
Library members who are interested in participating must register for the Summer Reading Challenge: Read the Universe (for ages 0–12) online. Registered participants may then stop by the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk at the Library to pick up their Challenge Cards or download them online. For each day that you read 30 minutes or more, fill in one of the spaces on the card. After five days, the card will be complete. When a Challenge Card is completed, stop by the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk to drop off your Challenge Card(s) in our raffle box and enter to win great prizes. A raffle will be held each week throughout the summer. The more challenges you complete, the more chances you have to win. For young children, being read to counts as well!

Complete as many challenges as you can between 18 June and 27 August 2022 and turn in your challenge cards at the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk by 27 August to be entered into the grand prize drawing, and earn your certificate of participation.

How does the 10 Book Challenge for Teens work?
Library members who are interested in participating must register for the 10 Book Challenge (for ages 12–18) online. Registered participants may then stop by the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk at the Library to pick up their Challenge Cards or download them online. For each challenge completed, teens win a new book! When you’ve completed a challenge, stop by the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk and show your Challenge Cards to a member of the Children’s and Teens’ Services staff, in exchange for a prize book to keep!
All challenges must be completed between 18 June–27 August, and Challenge Cards
All registered participants will be send an invitation to meet other readers and celebrate the beginning of the Library’s Summer Reading Challenge on Saturday 18 June at 14h00! Children ages 0–6 must be accompanied by an adult at all times when inside the Library. Each child (aged 6–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Teens may participate in this program on their own.
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Thanks to Visiting Librarian Jessie Hudson for coordinating this year’s Summer Reading Challenge with us!

Children in the Library Policy

Register here for the Summer Reading Challenge for ages 0–12

Register here for the Ten Book Challenge for ages 12–18

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Animal Problems (ages 3–5)
2022-06-22 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Animal Problems

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, explore picture books about the funny problems animals might have based on their unique physical characteristics, such as Giraffe Problems by Jory John, Lane Smith. This Story Hour will be hosted by Visiting Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Jessie Hudson, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

How to Tell a Story, with Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore (ages 8–12)
2022-06-25 11:00 - 12:00
How to Tell a Story
with Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore
For ages 8–12

Join author Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore for an interactive writing workshop. Charlotte will lead participants in the creation of their own original stories.
Each child (aged 8–12) may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.
About Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore: Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore’s many years of experience as a clinical psychologist in the NHS, and as a mother and grandmother, has helped her produce books which children love. Charlotte loves dinosaurs and animals, and Charlotte really enjoys rhymes and riddles! Her books, Who Am I?, More Animal Riddles and More Animal Riddles from the Sea combine her interest in animals, with her love of rhyme and riddles. Her book Herbie and the T. Rex includes dinosaur characters who each deal with the issues confronting them in their own way. Charlotte has been to over 40 schools where she enjoys giving workshops related to poetry and writing poems, stories and writing stories, dinosaurs and animals. Read more about Charlotte here.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Masks are strongly encouraged for all Library visitors ages 6 and up, staff, and volunteers. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Animals of the Safari (Ages 3-5)
2022-07-20 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Animals of the Safari

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, we’ll read books about the animals you may see on a safari including elephants, lions, and rhinos and will read the book The Ugly Five by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Librarian Kirsty, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Story Hour: Daring and Dastardly Dragons (ages 3-5)
2022-07-27 14:30 - 15:30
Story Hour:
Daring and Dastardly Dragons

For ages 3–5
3–5 year-olds and their grown-ups are invited to join us for an interactive Story Hour in a small group! This program lasts an hour, and features songs, stories, and hand rhymes in English.
For this Story Hour, we’ll read books all about dragons, including Zog by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Librarian Kirsty, with the help of Library volunteer Mary Wessels. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Register here

Children in the Library Policy

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Farewell, Kirsty (all ages)
2022-08-06 11:00 - 12:00
Farewell, Kirsty

all ages

Join us for a Scotland and unicorn-themed farewell party for Librarian Kirsty McCulloch Reid
Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian and YAFF Coordinator Kirsty McCulloch Reid will be leaving the American Library in Paris at the end of the summer to relocate back to Scotland. Kirsty’s contributions since she first began at the Library in 2015 are innumerable. She spearheaded the effort to grow YAFF to the incredible festival it has become, and she set a very high bar for accessibility in our catalog, along with assisting voracious readers find great books every day she comes to work. Kirsty will remain a part of the library community, and will continue as YAFF Coordinator on a volunteer basis for 2023. Two farewell celebrations will be hosted for Library members: one on Saturday 6 August at 11h00 for children ages 0–12 and their families, and other on Saturday 6 August at 14h00 for teens.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

Friendship Bracelets (all ages)
2022-08-13 11:00 - 12:00
Friendship Bracelets
all ages

Learn how to braid a friendship bracelet, or two (for ages 6+) or make a beaded bracelet for someone special.

Children ages 5 and under must be accompanied by a chaperone for the duration of this workshop. Children between the ages of 6–12 may participate in the program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Children in the Library Policy

Register here

We are an independent, nonprofit organization celebrating our 101st year of service. With your continued support, we are able to provide over 200 programs each year for ages 0–18. If you would like to support the Library, you can make a donation to help sustain this vital institution, and programs such as this one.

Donate to the Library

LEGO Creations (ages 6–12)
2022-09-03 11:00 - 12:00 | The American Library in Paris
Join the Children’s and Teens’ Services team for construction games and a friendly building competition. We’ll have all the supplies you need to create your own original creations.

Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Pirates, Ahoy! (ages 3–5)
2022-09-14 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read books (fictional and factual) all about pirates, including The Pirates Next Door: Starring the Jolley-Rogers, by Jonny Duddle.
This Story Hour will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Jason Hazard. They will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Plan to join in, sing along, and move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that caregivers put away their phones and other devices for the duration of this program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Baby Gym (ages 0–3)
2022-09-17 11:00 - 11:30 | The American Library in Paris
This participatory event for young children ages 0–3 and their caregivers includes music, movement, and song, and will be hosted by Patricia de Sereys of Pari-Grandir,who created this workshop and has been working at Pari-Grandir for the past 11 years.
This Baby Gym session is aimed at developing children’s motor, emotional, and cognitive skills. Gymnastics activities are used in an educational play mode, as games are essential for the child in a pedagogical approach that respects the child’s rhythm and needs, and is particularly effective for children from birth to 3 years old. This activity meets children’s need to mimic adults while encouraging their curiosity and their desire to discover. The different movements are done in pairs and are playful, safe and aim to develop the child’s personal growth and development. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
