Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-01-09 11:00 - 11:30 (Europe/Paris) | 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 If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson (pictured here), which will be included in this 9 January 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.

History Tour at the Library
2025-01-10 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-01-17 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-01-24 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-02-14 11:00 - 12:00
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 105-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.

Teen Night: Cookie Bake-Off (ages 12–18)
2025-01-10 19:00 - 21:00
If you love sweets, then this event is for you. Bake a batch of cookies (or buy a delicious bunch), and bring them in to add to our testing table. You’ll try to identify the ingredients, and vote on your favorite cookies. Then, participants will try recipes for no-bake cookies and test them out.
This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff.
Drinks and light snacks will be provided by the Library. 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. After-hours events for teens, such as Teen Nights, require a signed permission slip, which can be downloaded here. One permission slip is needed per academic year (September–July).
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.

Family Dance Party (all ages)
2025-01-11 14:00 - 15:00
Join us to dance, sing, and move to classic children’s songs, and fun dance tunes. This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers.
Comfortable attire is recommended!
The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. Children between the ages of 0–6 must be accompanied by a chaperone at all times while inside the Library. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

*Fairies, unicorns, elves, yetis, and other magical creatures are also appropriate.

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.

Meghan O'Rourke on The Invisible Kingdom
2025-01-14 19:30 - 20:30
A silent epidemic of chronic illnesses, poorly understood and often invisible, affects millions of Americans, from autoimmune diseases to long COVID. In The Invisible Kingdom: Reimagining Chronic Illness, a finalist for the 2022 National Book Award for Nonfiction, Meghan O’Rourke blends personal experience with a decade of research, uncovering the history and misconceptions behind these elusive conditions. This conversation will be moderated by Clémentine Goldszal, a frequent contributor to Elle and Le Monde Magazine.
About the speakers:
Meghan O’Rourke is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Invisible Kingdom: Reimagining Chronic Illness and The Long Goodbye, as well as the poetry collections Sun In Days, Once, and Halflife. Her writing has appeared in The Atlantic, The New Yorker, and The New York Times, and more. The recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Radcliffe Fellowship, and a Whiting Nonfiction Award, she resides in New Haven, where she teaches at Yale University and is the editor of The Yale Review.
Clémentine Goldszal writes about culture and literature for Elle and Le Monde Magazine. She likes to tell stories about how books, movies and the people who make them shape the world we live in. She lived in Los Angeles for three years in the early 2010s and is now based in her hometown of Paris. Her first book of non-fiction, Premiers cris, will be out in France on January 24th (Le Seuil), and will be available in 2026 in the UK (Pushkin Press). 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: Big and Little (ages 3–5)
2025-01-15 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read books about big creatures, small creatures, and everything in between, including picture books such as Who’s the Biggest by Delphine Chadru (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 the Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern 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.

Claire Messud on This Strange Eventful History
2025-01-15 19:30 - 20:30
A work of breathtaking historical sweep and vivid psychological intimacy, This Strange Eventful History (Longlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize) charts the Cassars’ unfolding story as its members move between Salonica and Algeria, the US, Cuba, Canada, Argentina, Australia and France – their itinerary shaped as much by a search for an elusive wholeness, as by the imperatives of politics, faith, family, industry and desire.
Join us with a conversation with author Claire Messud, moderated by Distinguished Professor, novelist, critic, and translator Dan Gunn.
About the speakers:
Claire Messud is the author of six works of fiction. A recipient of a Guggenheim and Radcliffe Fellowships and the Strauss Living Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, she lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with her family.
Dan Gunn is Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature & English at The American University of Paris. He is a novelist, critic, and translator. His critical works include Psychoanalysis and Fiction: an exploration of literary and psychoanalytic borders and Wool-gathering or How I Ended Analysis. His novels include Almost You and Body Language. He is Director of AUP’s Center for Writers & Translators and Series Editor of the ‘Cahiers Series’. He was co-editor of the four-volume Letters of Samuel Beckett and is currently editing The Letters of Muriel Spark. 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.

Winter Wonderland (all ages)
2025-01-18 14:00 - 15:30
Kick off the new year, and meet fellow Library members during our annual winter and new year celebration full of music, games, crafts, fun, and surprises! This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers. Light refreshments will be provided.
For this winter-themed celebration, put on something sparkly, or dress up as your favorite winter creature*!
The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. All participants must be able to understand and speak English in order to participate in the program. Children between the ages of 0–6 must be accompanied by a chaperone at all times while inside the Library. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

*Fairies, unicorns, elves, yetis, and other magical creatures are also appropriate.

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.

Performing Stories (ages 7–12)
2025-01-19 14:00 - 15:00
Children ages 7–12 are invited to come prepared to read aloud a page of a book of their choice. They will get tips and feedback to improve their reading and public speaking. Everybody will have a chance to read another excerpt and to apply the advice they’ve received.
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 7–12 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.

Story Hour: Light Show (ages 3–5)
2025-01-22 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books about light, rainbows, more such as Spark, Shine, Glow! What a Light Show by Lola Schaefer (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 Library volunteers 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.

Crafting Personal Narratives with Melissa Febos
2025-01-22 19:30 - 20:30
Join us for a lecture on the power, necessity, ethics, and craft of narrative writing. Inspired by Melissa Febos‘s essay “In Praise of Navel-Gazing” in her most recent book Body Work, participate in generative exercises to leave the event with short drafts to expand and revise on your own.
About the speaker:
Melissa Febos is the author of four books, including the national bestselling essay collection, Girlhood, which has been translated into eight languages and was a LAMBDA Literary Award finalist, winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award in Criticism, and named a notable book of 2021 by NPR, Time, The Washington Post, and others. Her craft book, Body Work (2022), was also a national bestseller, an LA Times Bestseller, and an Indie Next Pick. Her fifth book, The Dry Season, is forthcoming from Alfred. A. Knopf on June 3, 2025. She is currently an 2024-25 American Library Scholar of Note. Important information: The discussion will be available in person only.
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.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-01-23 11:00 - 11:30
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 I am a Bird by Hope Lim, illustrated by Hyewon Yum (pictured here), which will be included in this 23 January event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie.
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.

Mock Caldecott Celebration (ages 3–12)
2025-01-25 11:00 - 12:00
The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually to the “most distinguished American picture book for children.” We’ll hold an event to try and predict the winner—and we’ll choose some of our own favorites while we’re at it.
Our children’s and teen services team have selected nominees based on professional reviews and a careful examination of titles published in 2024 (there is no shortlist for the award). These books will be available in the Children’s Library through 21 January, and visitors are invited to submit reviews for each book they read. You can read a book (or all of them!), fill out a ballot to rate the story and illustrations and then cast your vote for your favorite picture book of 2024.
All ages are welcome to participate, however small children will need an adult to help them with each part of our activities. 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.

Finding the Best Fit University for You (with Ashley Miller) (ages 12–18)
2025-01-25 14:00 - 16:00
What’s your learning style? Are you a city mouse or a country mouse? How can you maximize your potential for growth when you head off to university? You should have a “dream,” a “reach,” a “target,” and a “likely” school on your list as you plan for university. What do those terms mean, and which schools would fit those descriptions for you individually?
One-on-one coaching on career exploration and college list building will be available for those who attend this presentation.
About Ashley Miller: Ashley Miller started her love affair with both the English Language and teaching at Bucknell University. After a brief stint in show biz as the talent assistant for actor David Morse, her career as a teacher began, with her time in the DC Public School system earning her a “teacher of the year” nomination. Prior to leaving the United States, she was the Education Enrichment Specialist at Project H.O.M.E in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In France, Ashley has been a member of the fac at both CentraleSupelec and Universite de Lorraine (lectrice), a board member of the American Women’s Group of Paris, a volunteer at Caritas Moselle and Enfants du Monde, and a proud member and judge of the Paris Spelling Bee at the American Library. In addition to getting her M2 at the Université de Strasbourg in “Technical Communication and Localization” (TCLoc), she is in the final throes of her college counseling certification through UCLA. 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.

Story Hour: Purple Party (ages 3–5)
2025-01-29 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books featuring the color purple and its various shades, such as Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson (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 Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Laurie 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.

Maylis de Kerangal on Canoes and Eastbound
2025-01-29 19:30 - 20:30
In Canoes, Maylis de Kerangal explores the haunting, transformative power of voice through the eyes of a young Parisian woman navigating life in rural Colorado. Seven interconnected stories, brimming with wit and intimacy, reveal how language and voice shape identity, obsession, and connection.
In Eastbound, a Russian conscript and a French woman cross paths on the Trans-Siberian railroad, each fleeing to the east for their own reasons.
This conversation will be moderated by Donatien Grau, Head of Contemporary Programs at the Musée du Louvre.
About the speakers:
Maylis de Kerangal is the author of numerous novels, collections of short stories, novellas and narratives, published with Verticales, including Naissance d’un pont (Prix Médicis 2010), Tangente vers l’est (Prix Landerneau 2012), Réparer les vivants (2014), Un monde à portée de main (2018) and Canoës (2021). Her books are translated into thirty-six languages.
Donatien Grau is a long-time friend and conversation-partner of Maylis de Kerangal. In his previous position as Head of Contemporary Programs at the Musée d’Orsay, he collaborated with the author on her 2019-2020 residence as well as on the 2021 exhibition of Maylis de Kerangal and Jean-Philippe Delhomme, « Légendes des réserves ». 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.

Teen Night: Murder Mystery (ages 12–18)
2025-01-31 19:00 - 21:00
Working in teams, participants will attempt to solve the murder mystery by the end of the evening.
This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads with the help of Library volunteers. Light snacks and drinks will be provided by the Library. 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. After-hours events for teens, such as Teen Nights, require a signed permission slip, which can be downloaded here. One permission slip is needed per academic year (September–July).
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.

Saturday Series: Just Joking (ages 6–12)
2025-02-01 11:00 - 12:00
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. This activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. 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. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. 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.

Study Hacks (with Ashley Miller) (ages 12–18)
2025-02-01 14:00 - 16:00
Managing School and life as a busy teen can be complicated. During this workshop, learn tips and tricks to keep your schedule on track and work efficiently. Some examples covered include: using templates, keeping your calendar in order, thinking backward (planning for deadlines), chunking (batching tasks), and much more.
One-on-one coaching on career exploration and college list building will be available for those who attend this presentation.
About Ashley Miller: Ashley Miller started her love affair with both the English Language and teaching at Bucknell University. After a brief stint in show biz as the talent assistant for actor David Morse, her career as a teacher began, with her time in the DC Public School system earning her a “teacher of the year” nomination. Prior to leaving the United States, she was the Education Enrichment Specialist at Project H.O.M.E in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In France, Ashley has been a member of the fac at both CentraleSupelec and Universite de Lorraine (lectrice), a board member of the American Women’s Group of Paris, a volunteer at Caritas Moselle and Enfants du Monde, and a proud member and judge of the Paris Spelling Bee at the American Library. In addition to getting her M2 at the Université de Strasbourg in “Technical Communication and Localization” (TCLoc), she is in the final throes of her college counseling certification through UCLA. 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.

Story Hour: Fairy Tales and Fables (ages 3–5)
2025-02-05 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books versions of classic fairy tales as well as new interpretations, such as The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig by Eugene Trivizas and Helen Oxenbury (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 Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman 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.

Rebuilding Notre-Dame
2025-02-05 19:30 - 20:30
This event is part of Ways of Seeing, a special series exploring the connections between storytelling, creativity, and the visual world. Join the conversation and attend events featuring cultural luminaries. Learn more →
Five years after the devastating 2019 fire, Notre Dame has reopened to the public, thanks to the tireless efforts of thousands of workers in a €900 million restoration. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, triumphs, and artistry that brought Notre Dame back to life.
New York Times journalist Aurelien Breeden, carpenter Hank Silver, architect Axelle Ponsonnet, and photographer Tomas Van Houtryve will share their unique perspectives on the restoration process. Moderated by Erin Ogunkeye, broadcast journalist with France 24.
About the speakers:
Aurelien Breeden is a Franco-American journalist who has been a reporter at the Paris bureau of The New York Times for over a decade. He covers a broad spectrum of news, including the 2019 fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral and the efforts to rebuild it. He has a dual master’s degree in journalism and international affairs from Sciences Po university in Paris, where he teaches an eight-week writing and reporting workshop. He lives in Paris with his wife and three daughters.
Erin Ogunkeye grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia but has spent more time living in Paris than any other city. She studied French law before realising she wanted to feel a closer connection to the rest of the world by following, relaying and breaking down current events; perhaps not too differently from the way a lawyer connects with a jury. She is an anchor at France 24 and presents ‘Around the World’ from Thursday to Sunday.
Axelle Ponsonnet, an architect graduated from the École d’Architecture de Paris Belleville, has been involved in the reconstruction of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral for the past four years, overseeing the lead roofing. Passionate about imagery and drawing, Axelle has been sketching the site since 2020, providing an intimate and privileged perspective on the rebuilding process of the iconic structure. Her book, “Balade dans Notre-Dame, carnet de chantier,” a unique and intimate exploration of the reconstruction of Notre-Dame Cathedral, is forthcoming.
Hank Silver is an American timber frame carpenter who has spent close to two years working on the restoration of Notre Dame de Paris. Born in New York City, Silver honed his craft in Vermont, before opening his own workshop in western Massachusetts. Since 2018, Silver has been a member of the France-based volunteer crew, Charpentiers sans frontières (Carpenters Without Borders) whose mission is the restoration of world carpentry heritage and the transmission of the skills and techniques to future generations of craftspeople. Silver currently resides in Paris.
Tomas van Houtryve is a Paris based artist, photographer and filmmaker whose major works interweave investigative journalism, philosophy and metaphor. Van Houtryve was selected to document the Notre-Dame cathedral of Paris after it was devastated by fire in 2019. With rare access to the rebuilding of the Paris icon, he made images using a wide range of techniques: 19th-century wet plate collodion, traditional photo reportage, and aerial drone videography. 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.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-02-06 11:00 - 11:30
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 I Know Numbers by Taro Gomi (pictured here), which will be included in this 6 February 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.

Music Together with Stacey Pavesi Debré (ages 0–5)
2025-02-08 14:00 - 15:00
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.

Story Hour: Valentine's Day (ages 3–5)
2025-02-12 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about Valentine’s Day, such as Love, Violet (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 Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman 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.

An Alternative History of Paris with Justinien Tribillon and Aaron Peck
2025-02-12 19:30 - 20:30
Join us for an illuminating discussion on Justinien Tribillon‘s The Zone: An Alternative History of Paris, who explores the Parisian hinterland that has shaped the city’s identity for over two centuries. From its origins as defensive walls to its reinvention as the Boulevard Périphérique, The Zone offers a compelling perspective on the intricate social and spatial dynamics that define modern Paris.
This conversation will be moderated by author and critic Aaron Peck.
About the speakers:
Justinien Tribillon is a curator, writer, editor and educator with a transdisciplinary practice including social sciences, photography, architecture, history and design. He recently published The Zone: An Alternative History of Paris (Verso, 2024), Ruderal: Liquid Identities (Deux-cent-cinq, 2024) and Visible upon Breakdown (Spector Books, 2024). Justinien is a lecturer in History, theory and criticism at the École nationale supérieures des arts décoratifs in Paris. He received his PhD in Urban Studies from The Bartlett, University College London.
Aaron Peck is the author of Jeff Wall: North & West, Letters to the Pacific, and The Bewilderments of Bernard Willis. A literary and art critic, he writes regularly for the Times Literary Supplement and Aperture magazine. 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.

Saturday Series: Black History Scavenger Hunt (ages 6–18)
2025-02-15 11:00 - 12:00
Let’s celebrate Black History Month by finding out more about Black literary and artistic figures from the 20th and 21st centuries!
Learn about several important historical figures; then receive tips and tricks for navigating the Library before heading into the stacks to discover more information about Black heroes in American history. Prizes will be given to those who complete the scavenger hunt. Children under the ages of 9 will require an adult chaperone to assist them during this event.
Check in at the Children’s and Teens’ Services Desk to begin!
We encourage you to explore these resources (most recommended titles are available in the Library’s collections):
We Need Diverse Books strives to create a world in which all children can see themselves in the pages of a book.
The Diverse BookFinder is a comprehensive collection of children’s picture books featuring Black and Indigenous people and People of Color (BIPOC).
Brown Bookshelf is designed to push awareness of the myriad Black voices writing for young readers.
Children should be able to read and write in English in order to participate in this workshop. 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: Rad Reptiles (ages 3–5)
2025-02-19 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about turtles, lizards, snakes and other reptiles, such as Alfie by Thyra Heder (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, Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman and Library Volunteer Amber Auer 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.
