À l’INHA, la fermeture estivale de la bibliothèque ravive le sujet
The National Institute for Art History (INHA) in Paris is facing backlash over its decision to implement a permanent two-week summer closure of its library every August. Originally introduced as a temporary measure during the 2024 Olympics and subsequent renovations, the closure is now being formalized by the administration despite a change in leadership. Staff and researchers have launched a petition, arguing that August is a critical period for international scholars and students who rely on the library’s extensive collections.
This dispute highlights the growing tension between institutional austerity and public service missions in major European cultural centers. While the INHA administration cites employee well-being, technical maintenance, and organizational equity as justifications, unions and users view the move as a way to mask chronic understaffing and budget cuts. As one of the largest art history libraries in Europe, the INHA's restricted access sets a concerning precedent for academic research and the accessibility of national heritage resources.