Quai de Conti

Les Bouquinistes

Very near the Left Bank entrance to Pont des Arts

the bouquinistes kept their stands open

even in the steady rain.

bon week end

Quai de Conti

75006, Paris

Quai Saint-Michel - "layers"

Layers seen along theSeine

Taken from the Pont Saint-Michel you can see layers from the buildings along the quai, the bouquinistes, the level under the street, the banks of the Seine, and finally the Seine herself.

How have I not noticed the walkway under the street level on this south side of the river?  What are those open spaces in the stone wall, and what lies beyond?  I am thinking of Jean-Valjean and M. Hugo.

Quai Saint-Michel et Pont Saint-Michel

75004, Paris

Les bouquinistes sous la pluie

The bouquinistes were open on this rainy October day

selling to the tourists who braved the weather.

The very old books, journals, and cards are kept in the back of the stall, 

protected from the rain.

Bouquinistes

Quai de Conti

75005, Paris

Les Bouquinistes

Les bouquinistes or used book sellers are seen all along the quais, particularly near Notre Dame. They have been an installation along the Seine since the 1500s and are now regulated by the city of Paris. It is estimated that it takes 8 years on a waiting list to be assigned one of these dark green boxes renting for about 100 Euros per year. Although there are many keychains, magnets and postcards, the city requires a balance of books and souvenirs and that the "green shop" be open at least 4 days each week.

I do love old postcards and greeting cards and the quais are great places to stroll and shop.