Lyon

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Libraries and Study Spaces

Sections

1. Types of Libraries and Study Spaces in Lyon

Lyon offers a variety of libraries and study spaces catering to different needs, including public libraries, university libraries, specialized libraries, and co-working spaces. Here’s an overview:

Public Libraries (Bibliothèques Municipales)

  • Bibliothèque Municipale de Lyon (BML): The largest public library network in Lyon, with 16 branches across the city.
  • Main Branch: Bibliothèque de la Part-Dieu, one of the largest public libraries in Europe.
  • Smaller neighborhood libraries are available in areas like Croix-Rousse, Vaise, and Gerland.

University Libraries

  • Université de Lyon Libraries: Includes libraries for Université Lumière Lyon 2, Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3, and Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1.
  • École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Library: A prestigious academic library for advanced research.

Specialized Libraries

  • Bibliothèque Diderot de Lyon (BDL): Focuses on humanities and social sciences.
  • Médiathèque de l’Institut Lumière: Specializes in cinema and film studies.
  • Bibliothèque de l’École Centrale de Lyon: For engineering and technical studies.

Co-Working and Private Study Spaces

  • Co-working spaces like Mama Works, Now Coworking, and La Cordée offer modern facilities for freelancers, students, and professionals.
  • Cafés with study-friendly atmospheres, such as Café Mokxa and Slake Coffee House, are popular among students.

2. Membership and Access Requirements

Public Libraries

  • Membership: Free for residents of Lyon and the Métropole de Lyon under 18 or for students under 26. For others, an annual fee of around €15 applies.
  • Registration: Requires proof of identity and address (e.g., passport, utility bill).
  • Access: Non-members can still access most spaces and read on-site, but borrowing privileges require membership.

University Libraries

  • Access: Primarily for students and staff of the respective universities. External users may request access for research purposes.
  • Membership: Free for enrolled students; external users may need to pay a small fee or provide a letter of recommendation.

Co-Working Spaces

  • Access: Open to anyone, but usually requires a reservation or membership.
  • Costs: Day passes range from €15–€30, while monthly memberships start at around €150.

3. Costs

  • Public Libraries: Free or low-cost (€15/year for non-residents).
  • University Libraries: Free for students; small fees for external users.
  • Co-Working Spaces: Pay-as-you-go or subscription-based, with varying prices depending on the location and services.

4. Opening Hours

Public Libraries

  • Bibliothèque de la Part-Dieu:
    • Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
  • Neighborhood libraries have shorter hours, typically closing by 6:00 PM.

University Libraries

  • Generally open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, with reduced hours on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays.

Co-Working Spaces

  • Most are open 24/7 for members, with staffed hours typically from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

5. Facilities Provided

Public Libraries

  • Free Wi-Fi.
  • Study rooms and quiet areas.
  • Printing, scanning, and photocopying services (small fee applies).
  • Computers for public use.
  • Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources.

University Libraries

  • Specialized academic resources.
  • Group study rooms (reservation required).
  • Access to online databases and research tools.
  • Printing and photocopying services.

Co-Working Spaces

  • High-speed Wi-Fi.
  • Comfortable seating and ergonomic desks.
  • Meeting rooms and private booths.
  • Printing, scanning, and coffee/refreshments.

6. Accessibility

  • Public Libraries: Fully accessible to people with disabilities, with elevators, ramps, and adapted workstations.
  • University Libraries: Accessibility varies; larger libraries like those at Lyon 2 and Lyon 3 are well-equipped.
  • Co-Working Spaces: Most are modern and designed with accessibility in mind.

7. Local Customs and Tips

  • Quiet Zones: Libraries in Lyon enforce strict silence in designated study areas. Use headphones and keep phone conversations outside.
  • Lunch Breaks: Many smaller libraries and study spaces close for lunch (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM). Plan accordingly.
  • Peak Hours: Libraries can get crowded during exam periods (January, May, and June). Arrive early to secure a spot.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Greet staff with a polite “Bonjour” when entering and “Merci, au revoir” when leaving.
  • Printing Services: Bring a USB drive or email documents to yourself for easy access to printing services.

8. Practical Advice for Visitors and Residents

Short-Term Visitors

  • Use public libraries like Bibliothèque de la Part-Dieu for free Wi-Fi and quiet study spaces.
  • Consider co-working spaces for flexible, short-term access to professional facilities.
  • Explore cafés with a study-friendly atmosphere for a more relaxed environment.

Long-Term Residents

  • Register for a library card at the Bibliothèque Municipale de Lyon for free or low-cost access to resources.
  • If you’re a student, take full advantage of university libraries and their extensive academic collections.
  • Invest in a co-working space membership if you need a consistent, professional workspace.

9. Key Locations

  • Bibliothèque de la Part-Dieu: 30 Boulevard Marius Vivier-Merle, 69003 Lyon.
  • Université Lyon 2 Library: 18 Quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon.
  • Mama Works (Co-Working): 92 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon.

Lyon’s libraries and study spaces offer a wealth of resources and facilities for both casual visitors and dedicated scholars. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to read or a fully equipped workspace, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.