Les bouquinistes

For hundreds of years, the booksellers have opened their green boxes in almost any weather, to sell their wares. It's a treasure trove of antique and used books, prints, magazines, and now assorted souvenirs for the eager tourists. I'll admit to purchasing some lovely vintage prints and posters myself. C'est Paris!

100 French Strangers #86 - Le bouquiniste

When strolling the streets of Paris, sometimes I stop and engage with people on the street. Other times I photograph Parisians who are oblivious to me and my camera. I really enjoy both. This day, this bouquiniste had such an engaging smile, I stopped to chat. He was happy to pose with the book he was reading en anglais ! I encourage everyone to try street photography. It enriches my travels in so many ways.

Le bouquiniste

 Enjoying his own livres.

Les bouquinistes

I don't know that I've purchased a book here but have found some lovely vintage prints for myself and gifts for family and friends. Always worth a slow stroll.  

So Many Books...

ALWAYS too little time.  I always seem to be zipping by these stalls at breakneck speed. I should devote an afternoon to just browsing.

Les Bouquinistes - All Lined Up

I really need to spend more time here. I've found some great prints etc., but always get overwhelmed at the selection and don't take the time to really have a closer look. When reading this link, I found that there are over 240 bouquinistes that share 900 of the "green boxes", selling 300,000 books, magazines, prints, cards ( and some tacky souvenirs).  I love the fact that these stalls have been here, unchanged,  along the Seine for so long.  Isn't that what we love about Paris........

Les Bouquinistes

I struck out on street portraits here!

Stroll along the banks of the Seine and you will find the famous Paris bouquinistes. They offer an amazing selection of vintage books, magazines, prints, posters, records and of course, the usual tourist fare from their tin roofed green boxes. Unlike the obnoxious souvenir sellers around the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre Coeur, these vendors have a very French, "take it or leave it " attitude! I LOVE that attitude. Let me look, and I'll let you know if I want to buy! Plan to spend some time here, but don't be disappointed if you come away without any street portraits. The booksellers tend to be a bit camera shy.