La Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) is the national library of France, located in Paris. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in the world, with over 15 million books and other documents in its collection.
The library was founded in 1368 as the Royal Library, and it has since grown through the centuries, acquiring many important works of literature, history, art, and science. In addition to its vast book and manuscript collection, the BnF also houses numerous prints, photographs, maps, and audiovisual materials.
The BnF is not only a repository of knowledge, but also a cultural institution that offers exhibitions, conferences, and concerts to the public. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and share France's cultural heritage with the world, and it continues to play a vital role in the promotion of French language and culture.
The library is housed in a modern glass-and-steel building in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, known as the François-Mitterrand Library. It also has several other sites throughout France, including the Richelieu Library and the Arsenal Library in Paris.
Photography: Walter Somers
