Photo : adonestock
Culture in Full Hands
Step into a vibrant space where storytelling transcends sound through the elegance of sign language. Whether you are curious to explore deaf culture or simply looking for an inclusive way to experience literature and films, these unique hubs offer a fresh, visual approach to human connection.
About
The five Pôles Sourds libraries in Paris offer a diverse cultural program from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026. Open to everyone, these municipal spaces highlight French Sign Language (LSF) through bilingual storytelling, film screenings, creative workshops, lectures, and live performances. This cultural offering, which celebrates inclusion and Deaf culture, is completely free of charge. The Canopée, André Malraux, Louise Walser-Gaillard, Saint-Eloi, and James Baldwin libraries welcome the public, supported by teams of Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing librarians trained in LSF.
Whether you are curious, passionate, or looking for new experiences, come and participate in the free events that the "Deaf Hub" libraries offer throughout the year:
- Bilingual storytimes for children and adults, where stories come to life in French Sign Language (LSF) and French.
- Film screenings followed by friendly discussions.
- Creative workshops to learn, share, and express yourself differently.
- Lectures and meetings to explore varied themes and broaden your horizons.
- Live performances and exhibitions that celebrate deaf culture and much more.
Here, sign language is highlighted as a full-fledged language, opening up new ways to communicate, share culture, and build connections!
These five "Deaf Hub" libraries have existed since 2003. They are one of a kind in France and have established themselves in terms of the inclusion of deaf people.
They offer collections on deaf culture, bilingual resources in sign language and French, and specific services for everyone. Their teams are composed of deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing librarians trained in French Sign Language.
Where to find us?
Five media libraries within the municipal network welcome you:
- Médiathèque de la Canopée (1st)
- Bibliothèque André Malraux (6th)
- Bibliothèque Louise Walser-Gaillard (9th)
- Bibliothèque Saint-Eloi (12th)
- Médiathèque James Baldwin (19th)
Join us in this beautiful adventure, and let yourself be surprised by a unique cultural offering in Paris.
Our take on this event
Since 2003, the Pôles Sourds library network in Paris has been a unique reference in France for its commitment to inclusion. Five municipal venues, including the Canopée Mediatheque, André Malraux Library, Louise Walser-Gaillard Library, Saint-Eloi Library, and James Baldwin Mediatheque, offer specialized resources and services. The staff, all trained in French Sign Language (LSF), ensure bilingual accessibility for every visitor.
From January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026, a free program of events is organized to explore Deaf culture and encourage community interaction. The schedule features bilingual storytelling sessions, film screenings followed by discussions, creative workshops, lectures, and live performances. These events serve to showcase sign language as a vital tool for communication and cultural sharing.
Whether you are looking to gain new perspectives or simply connect with others, these libraries provide exclusive access to dedicated collections. The variety of activities ensures an enriching experience, facilitated by a professional staff comprising Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing librarians.
