The Carnegie Library of Reims, known locally as Bibliothèque Carnegie, stands as a testament to resilience and cultural rebirth in the heart of Reims, France. This architectural gem, graced with Art Deco elegance, offers visitors a journey through history, art, and the enduring spirit of learning. Nestled in a city famed for its champagne and Gothic cathedrals, the library is a beacon of knowledge and a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural tapestry of Reims.
The story of the Carnegie Library of Reims begins in the aftermath of World War I, a time when the city lay in ruins. The devastation was profound, with countless historical and cultural treasures lost to the ravages of war. It was the generosity of Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist, that sparked the library's creation. Through the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, he donated $200,000 to the city to construct a new library, aiming to restore not only books but also hope and learning to Reims.
The library was one of three built with Carnegie's support in front-line cities, alongside Leuven and Belgrade. Designed by the French architect Max Sainsaulieu, the building was completed in 1927 and opened its doors to the public in 1928, graced by the presence of French President Gaston Doumergue and the US ambassador Myron Timothy Herrick.
The Carnegie Library of Reims is celebrated for its exquisite Art Deco design, a style that was both modern and luxurious for its time. As you approach, the building's façade captivates with its intricate mosaics and wrought ironwork, crowned by a classicist pediment. The entrance, adorned with vases from the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres, invites visitors to ascend steps symbolizing the elevation to knowledge.
Inside, the lobby is a masterpiece of design. A stunning cupola with an Art Deco lantern pendant, crafted by master glassmaker Jacques Simon, illuminates the space. The walls are lined with Algerian onyx and green marble, featuring mosaics by Henri Sauvage that depict various intellectual and physical pursuits. At the lobby's center, a fountain symbolizes the wellspring of knowledge, setting the tone for the journey within.
Scavenger hunts in Reims
Discover Reims with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Reims with your team!
The library's reading room is a sanctuary of calm and concentration. With oak floors and mahogany-paneled walls, it offers a serene environment for study and reflection. The room's centerpiece is a magnificent glass ceiling by Jacques Gruber, depicting an open book framed by the arms of the City of Reims. This artistic touch, combined with the geometric frosted glass windows, creates a space that is both inspiring and functional.
Behind the reading room lies the semi-circular book stacks, a unique design that efficiently houses nearly 400,000 volumes across five levels. This clever use of space reflects Sainsaulieu's vision of a library as a temple of knowledge, where every element serves the pursuit of learning.
In 2001, the City of Reims embarked on a restoration project to preserve and enhance the Carnegie Library's historic charm. Architects Jacques Bléhaut and Jean-Loup Roubert led the renovation, focusing on accessibility, safety, and the preservation of decorative elements. The restoration also improved conditions for the library's collections, ensuring their conservation for future generations.
The library reopened in 2005, now equipped with modern amenities such as a conference room and educational workshop. These additions complement the library's traditional functions, making it a vibrant hub for cultural and intellectual exchange.
Today, the Carnegie Library of Reims stands as a symbol of the enduring power of knowledge and culture. It is not just a repository of books but a living monument to the resilience of a city and its people. Visitors to Reims will find in the library a place where history and modernity coexist, offering a unique glimpse into the past while embracing the future.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Carnegie Library of Reims promises an enriching experience. Its walls echo with stories of survival and renewal, inviting all who enter to partake in the timeless pursuit of knowledge.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.