the National Library of France

The National Library of France, known as the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF), is France’s premier cultural institution for collecting, preserving, and providing access to the nation’s literary, historical, and scientific heritage. Located in Paris, it holds millions of books, manuscripts, maps, and digital resources. Established in the 14th century, the BnF plays a vital role in research, scholarship, and cultural preservation, serving creators, students, and the public through its extensive collections and modern facilities. It also promotes French and global knowledge through exhibitions, publications, and digital initiatives.