Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève

Pantheon square is home to a famous public and university library. But… Prepare yourself for some real Parisian hospitality and don’t come here for the coffee (also skip the toilets), you come here to study. Or pick up a date, at least thats what happened at the university library where I was a student. The private student cabinets were also very popular if you know what I mean. No need for this in Sainte-Geneviève; after you visit the restroom you’ll feel dirty enough already.

When it’s your first visit at Sainte-Geneviève, bring your identification as you have to pre-register on one of the computers in the back or just here.

Then you can register at the counter. You’ll be rewarded with your own library card (with ugly photo)! Then, finally a beautiful 19th century study hall awaits! High arches, impressive stained glass windows, green glass lamps on the old wooden tables. It was all worth it.

The library card should be kept with you all the time, you need to scan it when entering and leaving the studyhall. Also you’ll have to register if you’re going to take a break or are leaving. The library keeps count of everybody in the building. So you can check the website before you’re going if there are enough spots available.

 

Photo by Jason Whittaker under CC license

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *