Paris 2017 - BnF (4 of 9)

The Bibliotheque Nationale de France. aka the BnF..

Why the French National Library??? Well... that's a long story. For now, let's consider why YOU should think of going when there is so much to see in Paris! Of course there are all the museums and sites.... but maybe you want something quieter... calmer... less crowded... and FREE! Maybe the weather is just not cooperating and you want something that's central, easy.. and has restrooms and a cafe! Plus an epic movie theater (I'll get to that, I promise)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblioth%C3%A8que_nationale_de_France

"The National Library of France traces its origin to the royal library founded at the Louvre Palace by Charles V in 1368"

Come on! Isn't that awesome!

The BnF is in a part of town with really cool, modern architecture.. like this office building below..

It's easy to reach by bus or Metro...

The BnF compound is so enormous.. it's almost easier to look at these models first...

There are four towers. The main floor of the library circles an outdoor garden...

Here's just one of the towers...from street level...

A sign as you approach..

A stairwell takes you down...

...to the entrance..

Once you are through the door above... there is an inspection area. Bags are checked etc. Like at the airport... then you will enter the main lobby..

Near this main entrance, there is a general information desk. Some of the staff speaks English. They can send you to the desk of the reference librarians if you have more specific research needs. There is also a small book/gift shop. There are long corridors that lead you around the main floor. The inner side is all windows.. overlooking the garden. 

Reading rooms.. and stacks of books.. are along the other side...

Here's a map...

And here is what I found at one of the far corners! These ENORMOUS Globes.. built in the 1680s... as a gift for King Louis XIV!http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/louis-xivs-globes

These are stunning ---- an unbelievable treasure, just waiting for anyone who makes a trip to the library!

I was there in winter time... During the Spring and summer, the central court garden must be spectacular too!

The library was a popular spot...

Worth walking around outside as well if the weather permits...

At the foot of one of the towers, is this multiplex large screen cinema..

It plays current films..

There was this display of costumes from "Jackie"...

Love of books and learning is international....

Libraries are always worth checking out!