Photo : © CNL - Pierre-Emmanuel Lyet
Nights of Reading 2027 in the City of Paris libraries
From Wednesday, January 20 to Sunday, January 24, the Nights of Reading return to your libraries, around the theme of "Childhood".
About
For this 11th edition of the Nights of Reading, the City of Paris libraries renew their commitment to this national operation by organizing numerous free events around the timeless theme of "Childhood".
From foundational fairy tales to coming-of-age novels, from poetry to contemporary narratives, from comic books to children's literature, the theme of childhood permeates all genres and imaginations. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry said: "I am from my childhood. I am from my childhood as from a country." Behind this sentence, the author designates childhood as a foundational experience that awakens our consciousness and structures our individual development, as well as our relationship with the world.
On this occasion, nearly 80 events are being prepared to fill your libraries. Meetings, musical and illustrated readings, shows, pajama parties, reading parties, literary cabarets… varied and accessible literary events that present books and reading in all their forms, with childhood as a guiding theme.
National operation organized by the National Book Center.
Our take on this event
Rediscover your sense of wonder by stepping back into the books that defined your childhood during these special nocturnal library sessions. From intimate story readings to late-night literary performances, libraries across the city open their doors for a magical trip down memory lane. Whether you are looking to revisit old favorites or dive into new tales, these events offer the perfect nostalgic escape.
From 20 January to 24 January 2027, Paris City libraries invite you to the 11th annual Nuits de la lecture. This national event, organized by the Centre national du livre, offers nearly 80 free activities centered around the theme of childhood. Whether you enjoy poetry, graphic novels, or contemporary fiction, you will discover a rich selection of events including musical readings and performances. It is the perfect opportunity for readers of all backgrounds to explore how literature shapes our individual development and our view of the world through these diverse and accessible cultural gatherings.
Paris City libraries are hosting the 11th edition of the Nuits de la lecture between Wednesday 20:00 and Sunday 24:00 (specifically from 20 January to 24 January 2027). This year's programme explores the universal theme of childhood, reflecting the idea that our early experiences form the bedrock of our identity and our relationship with the world.
Nearly 80 events are scheduled throughout the city, ensuring a wide range of literary experiences for all attendees. The lineup includes author meet-and-greets, illustrated and musical readings, stage performances, and engaging formats such as pyjama parties, reading parties, and literary cabarets. All activities are provided free of charge.
Coordinated by the Centre national du livre, this national initiative aims to showcase books and storytelling in every conceivable format. By dedicating five full days to the theme of childhood, the libraries offer a space for exploration, reflection, and community engagement for everyone interested in literature.
