In Lyon, libraries aren’t just places to borrow books. They are true havens of culture, architecture and history. Whether you’re a lover of literature, a student or simply looking for a peaceful place to get away from it all, Lyon offers an impressive selection of libraries. Here’s a roundup of the city’s best, each with its own charm and special features!
1. Lyon Part-Dieu Municipal Library
Home to one of Lyon’s 16 municipal libraries, the Part-Dieu library is undoubtedly the most emblematic in the capital of Gaul. Not only is it one of the largest public libraries in Europe, with a surface area of some 27,700 m2, but its collections of manuscripts, antiquarian books, artists’ books, prints and photographs are the second largest in France. If you’re looking for something specific in Lyon , this is the place to be!
📍 30 boulevard Vivier-Merle, Lyon 3e
2. The 5th arrondissement library – Palais Saint-Jean
Housed since 1909 in the Palais Saint-Jean, the former residence of the bishops, the 5th arrondissement library is a reflection of the neighborhood: as unique as it is authentic. Did you know that? Before the Part-Dieu library became Lyon’s library headquarters, it was the Palais Saint-Jean library that occupied this prestigious location!
📍 4 Av. Adolphe Max, Lyon 5e
3. 1st Arrondissement Library
As central as it is legendary, the 1st Arrondissement library is located at 7 rue Saint-Polycarpe, on the 1st floor of the Condition des Soies, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unique in its history, this library was once used to estimate the moisture content of silks in transit between merchants and traders. In other words: a typical Lyon experience!
📍 7 Rue Saint-Polycarpe, Lyon 1st
4. Vaise media library
Opened in 2000, the Médiathèque de Vaise is renowned for its specialized “Arts vivants” department, which contains over 11,200 documents, as well as a large children’s area. What’s more, the librarians are very friendly, which always has an effect!
📍 Pl. de Valmy, Lyon 9e
5. Palais University Library – Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University
Although part of the Jean Moulin University, the Palais University Library is open to all. Located on the Campus des Quais, it offers nearly 300 places and contains a large collection of law, political science and philosophy, reflecting the reputation of the university. Probably the best library for studying before an exam!
📍 15 Quai Claude Bernard, Lyon 7e