Family story time at the Verlaine media library
In 9 days
At the Verlaine media library in Metz, families come together for an hour of reading aloud, built around a theme, an author or favourite children's books. From age 4, registration required.
The session
Each session centres on a theme, an author or a selection of favourite children's books. A simple moment for parents and children to enjoy together.
A library born of the Pontiffroy redevelopment
Opened on 5 March 1977, the library stands at the heart of Pontiffroy, a district largely cleared and rebuilt from the 1960s onwards. Designed by the architect Michel Folliasson, the building faces the former Saint-Clément abbey. It replaced premises that had grown too cramped, and in October 1977 it adopted the word "médiathèque", then a new term. As the hub of the Metz network, it also holds older collections: medieval manuscripts, incunabula, maps and plans. Its current name refers to Paul Verlaine, born in Metz on 30 March 1844, who left the city as a child. Recent picture books and very old volumes share the same roof.
Two Wednesdays in Pontiffroy, then a walk by the Moselle
There are only two dates to remember: Wednesday 18 November and Wednesday 9 December, at 2:30 pm, for one free hour of reading. The second is marked as a Noël en Fête special. Registration opens one month beforehand at the earliest, at the libraries or via servicesauxpublics@mairie-metz.fr. Afterwards, the district suits a short walk: it lies on the Île Chambière beside the Moselle, with the Saint-Clément abbey, the Petit-Saint-Jean chapel and the Pont Saint-Georges to spot. Families with energy left can head for the Plan d'Eau below the Esplanade, which has a playground. Wrap children up well, as the air stays cool near the water.
From 1920s Paris to today's read-alouds
Telling stories to children in a library has a fairly precise origin in France. L'Heure Joyeuse, the first French library reserved for young readers, opened in Paris on 12 November 1924 with support from an American foundation involved in post-war reconstruction. It borrowed Anglo-Saxon practices such as open access to the shelves. Story time, imported from the United States, was among its earliest initiatives. The idea has since spread to many libraries. In Metz it keeps a family format: adults do not drop children off but listen alongside them, and the choice of texts changes from one session to the next.
Practical information
Address: Médiathèque Verlaine - Pontiffroy, 1 Place de la Bibliothèque, 57000 Metz
Frequently asked questions
Where and when?
On Wednesdays 18 November and 9 December 2026 at 2.30 pm: Médiathèque Verlaine - Pontiffroy, 1 place de la Bibliothèque, Metz.
Who is this event for?
Children aged 4 and over and their families. Registration is required.
How can you reach the Verlaine library without a car?
The Mettis A is the simplest option: from the station or République, get off at the Pontiffroy stop. From the old town you can also walk across the Moselle and continue to Place de la Bibliothèque.
Which area should you choose to stay near Pontiffroy?
The area around the cathedral is close by and lets you walk over with the children. Staylaro's guide « Se loger à Metz » then helps you compare districts and look for somewhere to stay.
