France: Fire at National Library

Fire in roof during construction works - collections safe.


A fire which broke out in the roof of the historic site of the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BNF) was brought under control by firefighters.  There was minimal structural damage and no part of the library’s collections was damaged.

The location (5 rue Vivienne Paris (II)) is considered the historical cradle of the BNF and houses important collections of maps, coins and manuscripts.

Authorities believe the fire started accidentally – work has been ongoing to remove asbestos from this part of the building.

Source.  Spotted by Marydee Ojala.