Paris Bouquinistes, are they facing another crisis?

What is a 'flâner' along the Seine through the heart of Paris, without a pause to peruse the books at the stalls of the Bouquinistes that line the quais?

The modern day Bouquinistes opposite Notre Dame

The Mayor of Paris threatened to move the Bouquinistes during the Olympics, a general outcry scuppered that plan! These Parisian book sellers, unfolding their stalls from the dark green wooden boxes attached to the walls along the banks of the Seine are a Quintessential part of the romance of Paris.

They have been officially allowed since 1891, but their forerunners have sold on these banks since the 16th century. The area is a UNESCO Heritiage site and the Bouquinistes are a part of that patrimony.

In the olden days, a stroll on the banks of the Seine and a visit to the Bouquinistes

But today these sellers appear to be facing problems. It's part of the fairy tale side of Paris, strolling down the banks of the Seine, past some of the most beautiful buildings; Notre Dame, the Louvre, crossing maybe at Pont Neuf to view the stalls on the other side. They are featured in countless films and on social media.

But the reality is, they are having problems recruiting new Bouquinistes as sellers retire.

Many of the iconic boxes are now empty, strolling in the early afternoon over several days, there were few open.

Many stalls don't open in rain or shine

The content seems to have changed too, is this a sign that people no longer wish to buy second hand books, is it easier to sell new items rather than sourse antiques, which are constantly raising in price or are the additional lines mearly meeting a demand?

Not just books but pictures are traditional. You can find authentic old magazines and their prints for framing, (and a lot of copies too) there are even stalls who sell little vintage brocante pieces, all this is charming, but are people buying?

There are some talented artists who exhibit and sell on theses stalls, but you'll also find some mass produced work, sometimes with little merit, some are printed canvases, not orignal, too.

You can also buy souvenirs, the little plastic light up Eiffel Towers, fridge magnets etc (don't get me wrong, I love a twinkling Eiffel Tower!) and the endless tote bags are useful and practical!

Is this giving the passing public what they want? Actually is is better buying souvenirs from a registered merchant, not the gangs of pavement sellers who pop up in major tourist spots with an eye on the police, ready to grab their stuff and run?

Or is this 'diversification' the cause of the problem?

Many of us love the nostalgic, romantic Paris rather then the reality of the city. Are we actually seeing the reality here, people doing what it takes to make their living whilst weathering the realities of over tourism and market economics?

It is still possible to browse old books

One last thought; the people. The Parisian Bouquinistes. I've chatted to quite a few of them and most are kind, personable and patient. Being a Bouquiniste requires passion, it's a great tradition.

They source their own vintage stock, are there in all weathers and pay their taxes.

They work hard and I'd hate to see them go!

What do you think? Let me know in the comments

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