The library, created in 1978, is a place of consultation and research that is, in France and in Europe, the library reference in conservation and restoration of cultural heritage.

The library collections reflect the teachings provided to students of a master's degree in « conservation-restoration of cultural heritage » theoretical knowledge (history of art, iconography, history and deontology of conservation and restoration) ; technical and artistic knowledge ; scientific knowledge : physical and chemical properties of component materials of work objects and other subject matter used in conservation-restoration, risk of alteration on work objects, analytical methodology of research laboratories, instruments, tools and products used in conservation-restoration, preventive conservation, curative treatments or esthetic measures applied to conservation and restoration.

Document collections increase based on the 7 specialities in the master's degree programme : earthenware and glassware, graphic arts and books, textile, furniture, easel painting and mural painting, photography and sculpture.

The library is the repository of Gilberte Emile-Mâle's archive records, an important figure in conservation and restoration of cultural heritage in France. These archives are inventoried and indexed in digital form. 

Practical information

The library is open to all members of the public by appointment only.

Library holdings are for lending to students, teachers and Inp staff, and also to students from the Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne following a professional Master's degree in « Conservation-restoration of cultural property », or a research master's degree in « Heritage and Conservation-Restoration » and a degree in « Preservation of cultural property ».

The library is closed between Christmas and the New year and the first two weeks of August.

Location : Institut national du patrimoine / Département des restaurateurs, 124, rue Henri Barbusse - 93300 Aubervilliers

Tél : +33 1 49 46 57 03 - bibliotheque@inp.fr