American Library in Paris

Giraffe Mania: Paris as City of Natural History with Scholar of Note A. Kendra Greene
2024-11-13 19:30 - 20:30 (Europe/Paris) | The American Library in Paris
As we near the 200th anniversary of the journey to Paris from Africa of Zarafa, the first giraffe in Europe since the Medicis, join writer and illustrator A. Kendra Greene for an essayist’s illumination of curiosity and encounter, from medieval reports of the camelopard to the first photographic evidence of ghost giraffes.
About the speaker:
A. Kendra Greene is a writer and book artist based in Dallas. She is the author and illustrator of The Museum of Whales You Will Never See, first published by Penguin and Granta, and now translated into German and French. With publications from Atlas Obscura to Zyzzyva, her work has been presented at the Smithsonian, exhibited at The Reading Room, collected as far away as Qatar, and supported by fellowships from Fulbright, MacDowell, and the Library Innovation Lab at Harvard. Tin House will unleash a collection of her essays in curiosity, No Less Strange or Wonderful, in Winter 2025.
At the Library as a Scholar of Note, Greene is working on a nonfiction book-length project on Hell, or l’enfer. Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Story Hour: Science and Scientists (ages 3–5)
2024-11-13 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read stories about science, scientists, and the scientific method, including picture books such as We Go Way Back by Idan Ben-Barak and Philip Bunting (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Intern Zara Lees, will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
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.

NaNoWriMo Workshop with Noah Weisz (ages 12–18)
2024-11-09 15:00 - 16:30 | The American Library in Paris
Every November, hundreds of thousands of writers worldwide embark on a wild writing challenge known as NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). The goal? To write a full draft of a 50,000-word novel, from start to finish, in one month! Are you ready to give it a try?
Whether you want to take on the full NaNoWriMo adventure this year or not, come join other teen writers as we celebrate National Novel Writing Month with a special writing-intensive workshop. Bring your computer or notebook and your current writing project and buckle your seatbelt, because we’re going to churn out as many words as possible! With both individual and collective word-count goals and fun techniques to motivate ourselves, we’ll support each other as we blast through writer’s block and simply write, write, write. There will also be time to troubleshoot problems you’re having with your writing project and gather advice on getting unstuck. At the end of the workshop, you’ll have a chance to share an excerpt of your writing with the group.
About Noah Weisz: Noah Weisz is a fiction writer and educator with an MFA in Creative Writing and over a decade of experience helping students of all ages unleash the stories they have inside. Noah’s own writing for children and young adults has been widely published in literary magazines and has won the Sydney Taylor Manuscript Award, the A. Orr Fantasy Award, and the Katherine Paterson Prize for middle-grade fiction, among other honors. He is also a three-time finalist for the Bath Children’s Novel Award. Most recently, he has taught undergraduate creative writing workshops at Sciences Po and CEA CAPA; he also teaches creative writing at several middle schools around Paris, to adults through WICE, and to private students of all skill levels. You can find out more about him here. Important information:
This event is free for Library members, and 15€ per teen for non-members. Advance registration is required. All visitors 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.

Saturday Series: Cardboard Constructions (ages 6–12)
2024-11-09 11:00 - 12:00 | The American Library in Paris
Who makes up a community? What buildings do you visit in your own community? Participants in this workshop will design and build cardboard sculptures and create a city out of recycled materials. The Library will provide all the supplies necessary. You provide the talent!
This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern Zara Lees with the help of volunteers. This activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. 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 and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Yotam Ottolenghi: Comfort, the tour
2024-11-08 20:00 - 21:00 | Casino de Paris, 16 Rue de Clichy, Paris, 75009, France
Live on stage, Yotam Ottolenghi will share his expert tips for infusing your kitchen with his inimitable touch, creating comforting meals that explode with color, flavor, generosity and sunshine.
This event will be moderated by Curator of Cultural Programs at the American Library in Paris, Rachel Donadio.
This live event offers a unique chance to hear Yotam share expert tips on creating vibrant, flavorful meals that reflect his signature style. Yotam will discuss the inspiration behind Comfort, recounting stories from his childhood, travels, and home life that shaped his approach to cooking. Audiences will explore how these personal experiences inspired his evocative comfort recipes, each celebrating the joy of cooking and tradition. With opportunities for audience Q&A, The Comfort Tour offers an intimate and inspiring experience beyond the pages of the cookbook.
Please use the code ALYOTAM24 for a discounted ticket. Important information: This event will take place in person at Casino de Paris at 16 Rue de Clichy, 75009 PARIS.
Access to this event requires purchase of a ticket through Casino de Paris. Click on the button below to purchase your ticket. Use the code ALYOTAM24 for a discounted ticket!

History Tour at the Library
2024-11-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-18 11:00 - 12:00 | The American Library in Paris
The American Library in Paris invites you to register for a History Tour. Come visit us in person at 10 rue du Général Camou and discover:

Our origin story, when our Library warehoused a collection of books donated to the Doughboys fighting alongside Allied troops in WWI
The establishment of the American Library in Paris as a private library
The famous writers of the Lost Generation (Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, Henry Miller, and more) who explored our stacks during their time in Paris
Our Paris Library School, which brought American innovations to French libraries in the 1920s
The true stories of the brave Librarians who kept the Library open during the Occupation of WWII
How the Library has evolved over its 104-year history into the largest English-language lending library on the European continent

All tours are on Fridays at 11h00, last one hour, and take place in person at the American Library in Paris.
Tours are free of charge and open to the public. Pre-registration is required. Please contact us if you wish to reserve for 5 or more people (do not reserve through the site).
For school or group reservations, or for other questions, please email tours@americanlibraryinparis.org.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the Florence Gould Foundation and the American Center for Art and Culture.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2024-11-07 11:00 - 11:30 | The American Library in Paris
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as The Very Lonely Firefly by Eric Carle (pictured here), which will be included in this 7 November event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. 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. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! 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 and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Winged Wonders (ages 3–5)
2024-11-06 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read stories full of winged creatures—birds, bees, and dinosaurs too—such as Johnny’s Pheasant by Cheryl Minnema, illustrated by Julie Flett (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Intern Zara Lees, will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
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.

How Ike Eisenhower Led America with Susan Eisenhower and Elaine Sciolino
2024-11-05 19:30 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
Few people have made such momentous decisions as Eisenhower, and rarely has one person had to make such a varied range of decisions. From D-Day to school integration in Little Rock, from the Korean War to Cold War crises, from the Red Scare to the Missile Gap controversies, Ike was able to give the United States eight years of peace and prosperity by relying on a core set of principles. Susan Eisenhower‘s latest book, How Ike Led, illustrates not only what Eisenhower did, but why―and what we can learn from him today.
Susan Eisenhower will appear in conversation with Elaine Sciolino, contributing writer and former Paris bureau chief for the New York Times.
About the speakers:
Susan Eisenhower is one of Ike Eisenhower’s four grandchildren, is a consultant, author, and a Washington, DC-based policy strategist with many decades of work on national security issues. She lectures widely on such topics, including strategic leadership.
Elaine Sciolino is a contributing writer and former Paris bureau chief for the New York Times. Her forthcoming book, Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum, will be published in 2025. Decorated Chevalier of the Legion of Honor by the French state, she is the author of the national best-sellers The Seine and The Only Street in Paris. She has lived in Paris since 2002. Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Secret Society of Readers Book Club (ages 8–12)
2024-11-03 14:00 - 15:00 | The American Library in Paris
Children ages 8–12 are invited to bring a favorite recent read to share with the group. Participants should come prepared to tell the group about the setting, characters, and plot of their book, and to read a short passage—and to try to convince others to read the book without including any spoilers. Book-related activities and games will follow the discussion.
This event will be hosted by Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie. This activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. Children between the ages 8–12 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 and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Screening: State Legislature at the Cinémathèque du documentaire
2024-11-03 13:00 - 17:00 | Cinémathèque du documentaire, 25 Rue du Renard, Paris, 75004, France
As part of Frederick Wiseman, nos humanités • Chapitre 1, a retrospective with la Bibliothèque publique d’information du Centre Pompidou, screen the film State Legislature directed by Frederick Wiseman in the presence of the New Yorker journalist Lauren Collins and critic Jordan Mintzer.
About the Film:
The annual legislative session convenes in the capitol of Boise, Idaho, a small conservative state in the West. Representatives, citizens and lobbyists are hard at work; the making of politics has probably never before been portrayed in cinema with such generous acuity.
Runtime: 03h37min
About Frederick Wiseman, nos humanités, the retrospective:
La cinémathèque du documentaire à la Bpi presents a complete retrospective of Frederick Wiseman’s work, to coincide with the restoration of 33 of his films. This retrospective will take place in two phases: chapter 1 in autumn 2024, chapter 2 in winter 2025. Discover the full program.

Story Hour: Happy Halloween (ages 3–5)
2024-10-30 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read stories all about Halloween such as Georgie’s Halloween by Robert Bright (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie and Intern Zara Lees, will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
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.

(Hybrid) Entre Nous: Can Libraries Control the World? With Seth Kimmel and Lauren Robertson
2024-10-29 19:30 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
In The Librarian’s Atlas: The Shape of Knowledge in Early Modern Spain, Seth Kimmel investigates how the model of the library became the basis for Spain’s organization of its growing empire. As Spain sought to expand its dominance in the Americas, the world became a reflection of Spanish and Moroccan library science. Seth Kimmel is a professor of Latin American and Iberian Studies at Columbia University who studies the medieval and early modern period of the Iberian peninsula.
This event will be moderated by Lauren Robertson, scholar and current fellow at the Columbia Institute for Ideas and Imagination in Paris.
The Entre Nous series is co-organized by Columbia Global Paris Center, the Columbia Institute for Ideas and Imagination, and the American Library in Paris.
About the speakers:
Seth Kimmel is Associate Professor in the Department of Latin American and Iberian Cultures at Columbia University, where he teaches the literature and culture of early modern Spain. He is the author of two books, both published by the University of Chicago Press: The Librarian’s Atlas: The Shape of Knowledge in Early Modern Spain and Parables of Coercion: Conversion and Knowledge at the End of Islamic Spain.
Lauren Robertson is an Associate Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University, where she works on early modern literature and culture. She is the author of Entertaining Uncertainty in the Early Modern Theater: Stage Spectacle and Audience Response, and her recent essays appear in Shakespeare Quarterly, English Literary Renaissance, and Theatre Journal. She is currently a fellow at the Columbia Institute for Ideas and Imagination in Paris, where she is at work on her next book project, an account of the shared aesthetics of race-making and classical revival in the English Renaissance. Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Halloween Extravaganza: Library After Dark (ages 18+)(Ticketed event)
2024-10-26 21:00 - 2024-10-27 00:00 | The American Library in Paris

Revels for Fearless Readers (ages 10+) (Ticketed Event)
2024-10-26 18:30 - 20:00 | The American Library in Paris
This family event for Library members is part of the Library’s annual Halloween Extravaganza. The party features games and surprises, scary story readings, a performance from Jessica Moore and Thibault Hidalgo, and more. The event will culminate in a costume showcase for children, teens, and their families with costume prizes awarded in several categories:

Surprising
Literary
Gorey
Creative
Handmade
Magical
Classic Halloween
Teen ages 12–18
Adult age 18+
Duo/Group Costume

The costume judges are always especially impressed by homemade costumes, and creative ensembles.
This event also includes an optional poetry performance competition. Individuals who are interested in reading one of a selection of poems should purchase tickets and then send an email to kidsandteens@americanlibraryinparis.org to let us know that you would like to take part in the poetry performance.
Light refreshments will be provided by the Library.
On 26 October, we encourage members and non-members alike to follow the trick-or-treating route we’ve set up, and visit nearby businesses in the 7th arrondissement between 10h00–19h00. No registration required. 10€ per family for non-members. Maps available on 26 October at the Library. Important information!
TICKETS REQUIRED: Tickets must be purchased in advance for this event. Members may purchase tickets online on this page beginning on Tuesday 1 October: 15€ per person. Each person attending this event must have a valid ticket. All reservations are final and tickets are non-refundable. 1 child with a juvenile membership can bring 1 adult chaperone (total of 2 tickets). Household/family members may purchase up to 6 tickets in total. Doors open at 18h00 for this event.
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.

Sorcery and Spells for Beginners (ages 6+) (Ticketed Event) (SOLD OUT)
2024-10-26 15:00 - 16:30 | The American Library in Paris
This family event for Library members is part of the Library’s annual Halloween Extravaganza. The party features games and surprises throughout the Library, as well as a performance from Jessica Moore and Thibault Hidalgo, and a story time for families. The event will culminate in a costume showcase for children and their chaperones with costume prizes awarded in several categories for children, and a special prize for parents.
Costume prizes will be awarded in the following categories. The costume judges are always especially impressed by homemade costumes, and creative ensembles:

Funny
Literary
Scary
Animal
Pretty
Creative
Handmade
Magical
Classic Halloween
Parent
Duo/Group Costume

Light refreshments will be provided by the Library.
On 26 October, we encourage members and non-members alike to follow the trick-or-treating route we’ve set up, and visit nearby businesses in the 7th arrondissement. No registration required. 10€ per family for non-members. Maps available on 26 October at the Library. Important information!
TICKETS REQUIRED: Beginning on Tuesday 1 October at 10h00, Library members may purchase tickets for the event above for 15€ each. Members may purchase up to six tickets in total, and may give a maximum of two tickets to their non-member guests. All other ticket holders must be members of the Library on the day of the event. All tickets must be purchased in advance and each person attending must have a valid ticket (except babies under 12 months accompanying older siblings). If any tickets remain on Tuesday 15 October, they will be made available for purchase by non-members. We encourage families to select one of the Halloween Extravaganza parties to attend on Saturday 26 October, and enjoy trick-or-treating in the neighborhood.
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.

Bubbles & Broomsticks for Baby Bookworms (ages 0–6) (Ticketed Event) (SOLD OUT)
2024-10-26 11:00 - 12:30 | The American Library in Paris
This family event for Library members is part of the Library’s annual Halloween Extravaganza. The party features games and surprises throughout the Library, as well as music and a story time for young children. The event will culminate in a costume showcase for children and their chaperones with costume prizes awarded in several categories for children, and a special prize for parents.
Costume prizes will be awarded in the following categories. The costume judges are always especially impressed by homemade costumes, and creative ensembles:

Funny
Literary
Scary
Animal
Pretty
Creative
Handmade
Magical
Classic Halloween
Parent
Duo/Group Costume

Light refreshments will be provided by the Library.
On 26 October, we encourage members and non-members alike to follow the trick-or-treating route we’ve set up, and visit nearby businesses in the 7th arrondissement. No registration required. 10€ per family for non-members. Maps available on 26 October at the Library. Important information!
TICKETS REQUIRED: Beginning on Tuesday 1 October at 10h00, Library members may purchase tickets for the event above for 15€ each. Members may purchase up to six tickets in total, and may give a maximum of two tickets to their non-member guests. All other ticket holders must be members of the Library on the day of the event. All tickets must be purchased in advance and each person attending must have a valid ticket (except babies under 12 months accompanying older siblings). If any tickets remain on Tuesday 15 October, they will be made available for purchase by non-members. We encourage families to select one of the Halloween Extravaganza parties to attend on Saturday 26 October, and enjoy trick-or-treating in the neighborhood.
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.

Trick-or-treating (all ages) (open to the public)
2024-10-26 10:00 - 19:00 | The American Library in Paris
From 10h–19h on 26 October, the Library invites you to follow the trick-or-treating route we’ve set up, and visit nearby businesses in the 7th arrondissement.
Pick up your trick-or-treating maps at the Library on 26 October. They are free for Library members and 10€ per family for non-members. You do not need to pre-register in order to trick-or-treat.
This is a self-led activity.
How to trick-or-treat:

Put on your costume.
Find a bag for your candy.
Find your grown-up (they’ll need to be with you from now on!).
Pick up your map at The American Library in Paris.
Follow the map to the trick-or-treating spots.
At each spot, say: “Trick or treat” and take one piece of the candy.
Say: “Thank you! Happy Halloween!” before you leave.
Walk (don’t run) on the sidewalk (with your grown-up) to the next spot.
Trade the candy with friends if there’s something you don’t like.
Take your candy home to enjoy after your grown-up looks it over.

Candy Donations: The Library happily accepts donations of individually-wrapped, store-bought candy for Trick-or-Treating for this community event. If you would like to help out, please drop off your donation at the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk at the Library any time during open hours.
Questions? 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.

History Tour: 1920s Edition
2024-10-25 11:00 - 12:00 | The American Library in Paris
Did you know that Gertrude Stein had a penchant for pulpy mystery novels? Or that Hemingway attempted to secure a job at the Library for his drinking buddy?
The American Library in Paris invites you to register for a 1920s-focused History Tour. Come visit us in person at 10 rue du Général Camou and discover:

Our origin story, when our Library warehoused a collection of books donated to the Doughboys fighting alongside Allied troops in WWI
The establishment of the American Library in Paris as a private library
The famous writers of the Lost Generation (Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, Henry Miller, and more) who explored our stacks during their time in Paris
Our Paris Library School, which brought American innovations to French libraries in the 1920s

All tours are on Fridays at 11h00, last one hour, and take place in person at the American Library in Paris.
Tours are free of charge and open to the public. Pre-registration is required. Please contact us if you wish to reserve for 5 or more people (do not reserve through the site).
For school or group reservations, or for other questions, please email tours@americanlibraryinparis.org.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the Florence Gould Foundation and the American Center for Art and Culture.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.

Story Hour: It's Magic! (ages 3–5)
2024-10-23 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read stories all about magic such as The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi illustrated by Lorena Alvarez (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This event is part of our Halloween programming, and costumes are encouraged!
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Intern Zara Lees, will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
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.

(Hybrid) Abraham Lincoln’s Great Chain-Reaction with Don Doyle and Denis Lacorne
2024-10-22 19:30 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
The Age of Reconstruction: How Lincoln’s New Birth of Freedom Remade the World highlights the overlooked connection between the Reconstruction era in the United States and the radical transformations in Europe during the late nineteenth century. From the end of slavery in Spain’s Caribbean colonies to the end of Napoleon III’s reign in France, Don Doyle illuminates how American political changes have never occurred in a vacuum.
This event will be moderated by political scientist Denis Lacorne.
About the speakers:
Don H. Doyle is a retired professor of history who has taught at the University of South Carolina, Vanderbilt, and as a Fulbright professor in Rome, Genoa, and Rio de Janeiro. He has authored many books, among them The Cause of All Nations: An International History of the American Civil War and The Age of Reconstruction: How Lincoln’s New Birth of Freedom Remade the World. He lives in Folly Beach, South Carolina.
Denis Lacorne is a French political scientist. He is Director of Research Emeritus at the Centre de recherches internationales (CERI, Sciences Po). A specialist in the United States, his research focuses on American elections, the construction of national identities, multiculturalism, and the politics of tolerance and secularism from a comparative perspective. Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Music Together with Stacey Pavesi Debré (ages 0–5)
2024-10-19 14:00 - 15:00 | The American Library in Paris
Today, it’s common for us to simply listen to music rather than create it ourselves. But actively making music—with our voices and our bodies—is important to children’s overall development. Since 1987, Music Together, has introduced millions of children, parents, and teachers to the joys of music-making and the powerful benefits of having music in their lives. In our family workshops children and parents learn together through active exploration and live, meaningful interaction. So, take out the earbuds and pick up the instruments we were all given at birth—ourselves! Each child (aged 0–5) should accompany one of their favorite grownups.
About Stacey Pavesi Debré: An American in Paris since 2014, Stacey has been passionate about music and learning her whole life. She studied piano and string bass, joined choirs, orchestras, a capella groups and musical theaters, and worked as a vocalist in Japan and a singing bartender in NYC. In 2017, Stacey founded Bébé Music Box to bring Music Together’s award-winning music and movement classes to families and schools in Paris. Our weekly mixed-age family classes are a fun, dynamic, and inspiring way for families to connect through music. Plus, because music learning supports all learning, the benefits for our young music-makers extend well beyond class. For more information about Bébé Music Box family classes or to contact Stacey, visit www.bbmusicbox.com. To read more about music’s magical effects on children, visit www.musictogether.com. 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. Caregivers must remain with their children for the duration of this program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

(In Person Only) Braver Angels: Depolarizing Within Workshop
2024-10-19 13:00 - 16:00 | The American Library in Paris
All too often, our ideological conflicts become personal and we stereotype, dismiss, or ridicule our fellow citizens who support other political parties, leaders, and policies. In this time of polarization, many of us avoid conversations with others, even in our own communities, whose perspectives and opinions differ from our own. We worry that any attempts at discussions will devolve into arguments and acrimony, and result in anger and further divisiveness.
In this workshop, you’ll learn skills for having respectful conversations when differences arise including how to:

Become aware of your own “inner polarizer”
Disagree with others without demonizing, dismissing, or stereotyping them
Speak in ways others will want to hear
Affirm the importance of building relationships
Feel safe practicing your new skills

Please arrive on time for this highly interactive workshop. Attendance is free.
Space is limited so if you need to change your RSVP for any reason please contact the BA Europe co-chair Laura Pascal at lpascal@braverangels.org
*Tickets are Free, Donations Help Use promo code BRAVER during registration to get a free ticket. Donations beyond the free ticket support Braver Angels, 501(c)3.
About Braver Angels:
Braver Angels is a non-profit non-partisan organization devoted to bridging the partisan divide and strengthening the democratic republic of the United States of America.

Toddler Time: Halloween (ages 1–3)
2024-10-17 11:00 - 11:30 | The American Library in Paris
Our Toddler Time is for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers, and features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories featured during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as Ghost Eats It All by Janee Trasler (pictured here), which will be included in this 17 October event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. 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. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! 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 and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

(Hybrid) The Ghosts of Paris with Lauren Elkin and Daniel Medin
2024-10-16 19:30 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
Lauren Elkin’s first novel, Scaffolding, is the story of two couples who live in the same apartment in north-east Paris almost fifty years apart. In 2019, Anna, a psychoanalyst, is processing a recent miscarriage. In 1972, Florence and Henry are renovating their kitchen. Both couples face the challenges of marriage, fidelity, and pregnancy, as their ghosts intersect, unaware they once all inhabited the same space.
This event will be moderated by Daniel Medin.
About the speakers:
Lauren Elkin is the author of several books, including Flâneuse: Women Walk the City, a Radio 4 Book of the Week, a New York Times Notable Book of 2017, and a finalist for the PEN/Diamonstein-Spielvogel award for the art of the essay. Her essays on art, literature, and culture have appeared in the London Review of Books, the New York Times, Granta, Harper’s, Le Monde, Les Inrockuptibles, and Frieze, among others. She is also an award-winning translator, most recently of Simone de Beauvoir’s previously unpublished novel The Inseparables. After twenty years in Paris, she now lives in London.
Daniel Medin is an editor and professor of comparative literature at the American University of Paris.
This event is produced in collaboration with the American University in Paris‘s Center for Writers and Translators.
Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Story Hour: Surprises and Scares (ages 3–5)
2024-10-16 14:30 - 15:30 | The American Library in Paris
For this Story Hour, we’ll read stories full of surprises, with a few Halloween scares too. The books included in this program are picture books for young readers such as Boo! Haiku by Deanna Caswell, illustrated by Bob Shea (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Intern Zara Lees, will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
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.

(Zoom Tickets Available) A Memoir of the Village Voice Bookshop with Odile Hellier and Alan Riding
2024-10-15 19:30 - 20:30 | The American Library in Paris
From 1982 to 2012, Paris’ Village Voice Bookshop was frequented by some of the greatest English-language authors of its time, such as David Sedaris, Amy Tan, and Don DeLillo. In her new memoir, Village Voices: A Memoir of the Village Voice Bookshop, Odile Hellier recounts her store’s forty years of cultivating literary excellence. This discussion will be moderated by long-time New York Times correspondent Alan Riding.
About the speakers:
Odile Hellier was born in the South of France during World War II and raised in Lorraine, near the German border, and Brittany, on the Atlantic Ocean. She is the founder and owner of the Village Voice Bookshop, a hub of Anglophone literary life and culture that operated in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris for more than thirty years.
Alan Riding is a former correspondent of the New York Times, having been variously based in Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Rome and Paris, most recently as the paper’s European arts correspondent. He is author of books on Mexico, Shakespeare, Opera and the cultural life of Paris during the Nazi occupation. He lives in Paris with his journalist wife, Marlise Simons. Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.
Evenings with an Author are free and open to the public (with a 10€ suggested donation)
thanks to the generous support of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten of GRoW @ Annenberg.

Creating Historical Fiction with Elizabeth Wein (ages 10+)
2024-10-12 17:00 - 18:00 | The American Library in Paris
The Library is delighted to welcome author Elizabeth Wein.
Join Elizabeth Wein, in discussion with teen community members, to talk about her writing and writing process. Learn how she put her research on WWII, spies, and female pilots to use to create award-winning bestsellers such as Code Name Verity and Rose Under Fire. An audience Q&A will follow, and then Elizabeth Wein will be available to sign books.
Join us for a conversation on creating new worlds and stories grounded in historical events.
About the speaker:
Elizabeth Wein is a recreational pilot and the owner of about a thousand maps. She is the author of several young adult novels, including Code Name Verity, Black Dove, White Raven, and Stateless. Her book A Thousand Sisters: The Heroic Airwomen of the Soviet Union in World War II was a finalist for YALSA’s Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Award. Originally from the US, Elizabeth graduated from Yale University, and holds a PhD in Folklore from the University of Pennsylvania. She currently lives in Scotland.

Important information:
The discussion will be in person only. Elizabeth Wein will appear at the Library, and the discussion will not be recorded. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are expected to familiarize themselves with the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant environment for all patrons.
Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.

Free Write: A Creative Session (ages 12–18)
2024-10-12 15:00 - 16:30 | The American Library in Paris
Meet other writers in the community as you explore ways to jump start your creative writing. Begin a short story during this session, or bring in a project you are working on. There will be time to write and dedicated time to share and get feedback.
Library volunteer and Young Authors Fiction Festival winner (1st place, 12th grade category) Zara Reid Hodson will facilitate this workshop. Teens interested in the Library’s Teen Writing Group are encouraged to attend this session, as this workshop will follow a similar format.
Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Important information:
This event is free for Library members, and 15€ per teen for non-members. Advance registration is required. All visitors 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 and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
