Written and graphic heritage
The public reading libraries and archives of the Grand Est region are custodians of a written and graphic heritage of the utmost importance. These ancient collections, which mostly come from revolutionary confiscations, consist of manuscripts, books, prints, maps, prints, photographs, scores, posters, periodical press... Collections that continue to be enriched by purchases, donations, legacies...
The ancient, rare and precious collections of territorial libraries and archives are placed under the technical control of the State (Heritage Code, articles R. 310-2 to R. 310-13). The movement, exhibition, restoration and preservation of documents are subject to the rules set out in the Heritage Code.
These collections are imprescriptible and inalienable.
The missions of the DRAC
Within the DRAC Grand Est, the advisers for books, reading, archives, the French language and the languages of France (Pôle démocratisation et industries culturelles) report to the regional institutions, Ministry of Culture policies initiated at national level.
They support communities in their actions :
- conservation (construction of conservation areas, purchase of furniture and conservation equipment, information on standards and standards...);
- document restoration ;
- inventory, reporting and retroconversion of catalogues ;
- value of their funds (digitization, major exhibitions, publications, national celebrations...).
They promote the enrichment of library and media library heritage funds.
They take part in organising the cooperation of documentary institutions and the training of professionals (study days, seminars, etc.). They disseminate professional and legal information.
To read in the section "Written heritage and graphics"
- Conserve, restore, digitize, enrich and enhance
- Digital reference libraries (National Library of France)
- Associated BNF divisions (National Library of France)
Grant application
The State’s financial assistance can cover all these missions, thanks to several schemes, implemented according to the domain via:
- grants from the DRAC and the Regional Fund for Restoration and Acquisition for Local Government Libraries (FRRAB);
- special assistance from the General Decentralisation Allocation (DGD) for libraries;
- calls for national projects from the Ministry;
- assistance from the Ministry for Heritage Acquisitions of National Interest (APIN) or the Heritage Fund for exceptional acquisitions.
Learn more and access application files and calls for projects:
Municipal libraries classified in the Grand Est region
Of the municipal libraries in France with an old collection, 54 are classified, including 4 in the Grand Est. They usually keep a large state fund, which puts staff at their disposal.
Pompidou Library - Champagne shawls
Reims Libraries with its Carnegie Heritage Library
Troyes Champagne Métropole Media Library
Nancy Public Library
Located in departments subject to Alsatian - Mosellan local law, the following institutions are classified as libraries:
Dominican Library - Colmar
Media libraries - Mulhouse
Media libraries - Metz
