This post is dedicated to 7 English Bookstores in Paris.
As someone who has always been passionate about books, one of my favorite things about living in Paris is the abundance of English-speaking bookstores in the city. From the iconic Shakespeare and Company to the specialized selection at Librarie Gourmande, there are so many options for finding great books in my native language. In this blog post, I want to share with you some of my personal favorites and offer some anecdotes about my experiences at these bookstores. Whether you’re a resident of Paris or just visiting for a short time, I hope that this guide will help you discover some new favorite places to find books in English. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the wonderful world of English-speaking bookstores in Paris together!
#1 Shakespeare and Company
One of my favorite English-speaking bookstores in Paris is Shakespeare and Company. Yes, it can be crowded and touristy but in Paris there is beauty in the cliches. Located on the Left Bank in the heart of the city, this iconic bookstore has a long history dating back to the 1920s. It’s known for its cozy atmosphere and vast collection of books, as well as its frequent author events and workshops. I’ve spent many afternoons browsing the shelves at Shakespeare and Company, and I always leave with a new book or two. The cafe next door opens an hour before the shop so I treat myself to a cup of coffee before the crowds arrive.
#2 The American Library in Paris
While not a bookstore, the non-profit American Library in Paris has been a fixture on the Paris literary scene since 1920. The Library was founded with a collection donated by American libraries to US armed forces personnel serving their allies in WWI. When the war was over, the books stayed on in Paris. The Library has since grown into the largest English-language lending library on the European continent and offers modern reading rooms, comfortable study nooks, spaces for children and teens, and adds thousands of new books each year. Membership is required to check out books, and anyone can join-—you don’t have to be American, just have a love for reading in English. The Library also presents author talks and evening cultural programs, which are often free and open to the public.
#3 San Francisco Books
San Francisco Bookstore in Paris is a true paradise for used book lovers. Located in the bustling 6eme neighborhood, this independent bookstore has been a beloved fixture of the Parisian literary scene for decades. It’s packed to the brim with a wide selection of used books, making it a bit challenging to sort through but well worth the effort. The cozy atmosphere and passionate staff make it a joy to spend an afternoon at San Francisco Bookstore, and the good prices on the used books make it an even more appealing destination. If you’re in the mood for a literary adventure and don’t mind a bit of a treasure hunt, be sure to stop by San Francisco Bookstore – you won’t be disappointed!
#4 The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore
The Red Wheelbarrow bookstore in Paris is an absolute gem for discerning book lovers. Nestled in the heart of the city, just next to the picturesque Luxembourg gardens, this sophisticated shop is filled with a carefully curated selection of brand new English language books. As a lover of newly translated French literature, I have always been drawn to the Red Wheelbarrow’s impressive selection in this regard. The staff are truly passionate about literature and are always happy to engage in thoughtful discussions about the latest releases. I have often purchased books for my book club here, and have never been disappointed by their recommendations. The ambiance of the shop is warm and inviting, making it a pleasure to spend an afternoon perusing the shelves. I can confidently say that the Red Wheelbarrow is one of my all-time favorite bookstores, and I highly recommend it to any bibliophile visiting Paris.
#5 Librairie Gourmande
The Librairie Gourmande: The Parisian End of the World for Food and Drink. I dedicated an entire blog post to the bookstore last year. Note they carry books in French and English and are mixed together so you need to browse by category! The shop stocks a wide range of publications on food history, cultural studies, and the relationship between food and art. The collection is vast, and there is no other place outside the Atheneum Bookstore in Beaune where I have found such resources and delights. Imagine International cookbooks from every country you can think of, chef biographies, and an entire atlas of cheeses, fish, herbs, and mushrooms – one can easily spend an afternoon getting lost inside. I have on more than one occasion.
#6 W.H Smith
W.H. Smith is a well-known chain of bookstores and newsstands that has been in operation since 1792. While the company is originally from the UK, it has several locations in Paris, making it a convenient option for English speakers looking for books and other products in their native language. The largest is located just adjacent to Concord Metro. W.H. Smith stores can be found at several locations throughout the city, including Charles de Gaulle Airport, Gare du Nord, and the Orly Airport. In addition to books, W.H. Smith stores also sell magazines, newspapers, and other travel essentials, making them a one-stop shop for travelers and locals alike. While the selection of books may not be as extensive as some of the other English-speaking bookstores in Paris, W.H. Smith is a convenient and reliable option for those looking for a quick and easy way to find English-language products in the city.
#7 The Abbey Bookshop
Finally, no list of English-speaking bookstores in Paris would be complete without mentioning the Abbey Bookshop. Located in the Latin Quarter, this bookstore has a wide selection of English-language books, as well as a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. I’ve always found the staff at the Abbey Bookshop to be particularly helpful and knowledgeable, and they always seem to have recommendations for new and interesting books to read.
In conclusion, Paris may be known for its French language and culture, but there are plenty of options for English speakers looking for books in their native language. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bookstore with a wide selection of books, or a specialized shop with a more targeted selection, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs in the city of lights.
