History

In 1993, Angers already had three modern libraries: the municipal library and the two university libraries. Why then did the Department, the City, and the two universities decide to financially support the creation of yet another library—and a private one at that? The reason was that the American Library of Angers, with its 20,000 books and some fifty magazine subscriptions, carried a unique mission: to open a window onto the English-speaking world and to promote international exchange.

A brief look back: nearly 300 km from Angers, the first American Library was founded in Paris after the First World War. Closed during the Second World War, it reopened shortly afterward with the support of numerous donors on both sides of the Atlantic. In the 1950s, as the American model reached its height, the American Library in Paris decided to open five branches across France.

One of these branches was established on the campus of the University of Nantes. However, in the 1980s, following administrative disagreements, the American Library in Paris withdrew its financial support. Tens of thousands of books and magazines were then packed up and stored in a basement, forgotten for several years.

It was at this point that Professor Forkner of the University of Angers heard about the situation. He suggested to his colleague Philippe Séjourné, who had recently retired, that they try to revive the collection by moving it to Angers. The idea immediately won over the four Angers-based partners mentioned above. Mrs Pilpoul, representing the American Library in Paris, facilitated the arrangements, and the General Council identified suitable premises. Thanks to the joint support of the Department and the City of Angers, the building was renovated and remains, to this day, the home of the English-language Library in Angers.

Under the dynamic leadership of Madame Phoebe Marshall-Raimbeau—affectionately known as Captain Phoebe—the library flourished. It became a vibrant meeting place, frequented by students, faculty, and many members of the international community. In 2002, when the American Library in Paris decided to make all its branches independent, the decision was made to rename the library to reflect its new status and the diversity of its users. The name “English-language Library in Angers” was adopted unanimously.

Thanks to a growing network of volunteers and a dedicated staff, the library expanded its activities: book clubs, language workshops, cultural events, and many other initiatives. Over the years, despite challenges and transitions, the staff demonstrated unwavering commitment. Under the caring and determined direction of Phoebe Marshall-Raimbeau, the library weathered the passing decades without ever losing its spirit.

Today, a new chapter begins: Mrs. Mandy Torsey-Guillet succeeds Phoebe Marshall-Raimbeau. With her international experience and deep commitment to intercultural exchange, she aims to carry forward the work of her predecessors while bringing fresh energy to the English-language Library. Under the presidency of Gaëlle Delarboulas, the library continues to thrive as a place of exchange, learning, and openness to the world—true to the spirit that has guided it for more than thirty years.