Le Livre sur la Place is France's first major national book fair of the autumn literary season, drawing book lovers to Nancy each September. The fair fills the city's elegant Place de la Carrière with more than 500 authors and illustrators for three days of signings, discussions, and readings.
The event takes its name from the historic square where it unfolds, offering a mix of literary cafés, radio broadcasts, and family activities alongside the book stalls. Whether you're a devoted reader or simply curious, this guide explains what to expect and how to make the most of your visit.
When and Where: Dates and Venues
The 48th edition of Le Livre sur la Place runs from September 11 to 13, 2026, in Nancy. The main gathering point is the historic Place de la Carrière, with additional events held at the Parc des Expositions de Nancy, which is located a short distance away in Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy. Organizers stress that dates and venues can change, so confirm details before you travel by checking the official fair website and the Destination Nancy tourism office.
Many of the fair's events, including author signings and readings, are free and open to the public, but some sessions may require reservations or have limited seating. The program typically includes a wide range of discussions, literary cafés, and family activities spread across the two sites, so it is worth planning your route in advance.
What to Expect at the Fair
The fair is a celebration of books in all forms, with author signings, literary cafés, readings, and panel discussions. Radio broadcasts from the square add a lively dimension, and there are activities for families and children throughout the weekend.
Each year, more than 500 authors and illustrators are expected to attend, representing a wide range of genres from novels and essays to comics and children's literature. It is a rare chance to meet authors face-to-face and have books signed on the spot, so bring your must-have titles or buy them at the fair's bookshops.
2026 Presidents: A Dual Presidency
For its 48th edition, Le Livre sur la Place features a dual presidency with Élie Barnavi and Elias Sanbar co-chairing the fair. Barnavi is an Israeli historian and former ambassador to France, while Sanbar is a Palestinian historian, poet, and former ambassador to UNESCO. Their joint leadership is a deliberate choice to emphasize dialogue, openness, and peace, as highlighted by the Destination Nancy tourism office.
Each president has recently published a new work: "The Lover's Dictionary of Israel" by Barnavi and "A New Love Dictionary of Palestine" by Sanbar, both from publisher Plon. Their presence underscores the fair's role in fostering cultural exchange and intellectual engagement.
Prize Juries and Featured Authors
Several literary prizes are awarded during the fair, each with its own jury president. For the 24th edition of the Prix Livre et Droits Humains, French-Iranian writer and filmmaker Abnousse Shalmani serves as president. Writer Philippe Jaenada, a Prix Femina laureate, leads the 11th Prix Stanislas for best first novel, and rapper Oxmo Puccino presides over the 7th Prix Ginkgo for audiobooks. These appointments are detailed by the event's organizers.
These prizes add a competitive edge and often draw attention to emerging voices in French literature. Watching a jury announce a winner live is a highlight for many attendees, and the ceremonies are typically held at the fair's main stages.
Literary Prizes Awarded at the Fair
Beyond the presidents, the fair is known for its array of literary awards. Among the most prestigious are the Goncourt de la Biographie, the Prix Stanislas for best first novel, and the Prix Ginkgo for audiobooks. Other awards include the Prix du Livre Environnement de la Fondation Veolia, the Prix des librairies de Nancy – le Point, the Feuille d'Or de la Ville de Nancy, and the Prix Livre et Droits Humains.
The Prix Stanislas has gained prestige in recent years by spotlighting debut authors, while the Prix Livre et Droits Humains recognizes works that engage with human rights issues. The official fair website lists all prizes and past winners, which can give you a sense of the breadth of literary recognition at the event.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Nancy is well connected by high-speed train from Paris and other major cities, and the fair venues are within reach of the historic center. The main site, Place de la Carrière, is a short walk from the train station, while the Parc des Expositions de Nancy in Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy may require a short bus or tram ride. For current transport details, check the official Nancy tourism website.
Accommodation in Nancy fills up quickly during the fair, so it is wise to book early. If traveling with children, look for family activities and storytelling sessions that are often part of the program, and consider bringing sun protection or an umbrella depending on the September weather.
Make a list of authors you want to meet in advance, as signing queues can be long. Check the official website for the full schedule of signings and panels to plan your day. Also, wear comfortable shoes: the fair involves a lot of walking between venues.
Beyond the Fair: Nancy's Literary and Cultural Heritage
Nancy is a UNESCO World Heritage city, famous for its 18th-century Place Stanislas and its rich Art Nouveau heritage. If you have extra time, explore the Old Town's bookshops, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, or wander the streets to admire the city's architecture.
The city also hosts other events throughout the year, such as the Art Nouveau Festival and the Nancy Christmas Market, which attract visitors in different seasons. These events can be combined with a trip to the book fair if you want to experience Nancy's cultural calendar more fully, and you can find more inspiration in our guide to festivals in France.
Plan Your Visit
Le Livre sur la Place offers a vibrant start to the autumn literary season, set against the backdrop of one of France's most beautiful squares. With its mix of high-profile authors and intimate exchanges, it is an event that rewards both casual browsers and dedicated bibliophiles.
For the most current details on the program, author appearances, and any last-minute changes, consult the official fair website. Then book your travel and accommodation early, and prepare to immerse yourself in the world of books.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Le Livre sur la Place in Nancy?
Le Livre sur la Place typically takes place in mid-September. The 48th edition is scheduled for September 11–13, 2026. For following years, check the official website for confirmed dates.
Where does Le Livre sur la Place take place?
The main venue is the Place de la Carrière in Nancy's historic center. Some events may be held at the Parc des Expositions de Nancy, which is nearby in Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy.
Who are the presidents of the 2026 Le Livre sur la Place?
The 2026 edition has a dual presidency: Élie Barnavi, an Israeli historian, and Elias Sanbar, a Palestinian historian and poet, symbolizing dialogue and peace.
What literary prizes are awarded at Le Livre sur la Place?
Several prizes are awarded, including the Goncourt de la Biographie, the Prix Stanislas for best first novel, the Prix Ginkgo for audiobooks, the Prix du Livre Environnement, and the Prix Livre et Droits Humains.
