Chers amis,

Last year, the pandemic didn’t leave us much choice as to how members and friends of the French Library would celebrate Bastille Day, and we met on our screens. This year, with so much progress being made on going back to normal but not quite there yet, we celebrated both on-screen and in-person. Deux événements émouvants et joyeux !

We were so happy to be reunited for our signature event which celebrates the profound values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The format was different – we didn’t close a whole street– but our spirits were positively soaring.

We are not back on Marlborough Street yet, but what a treat we will have for you all when we finish our building’s renovation and welcome you to the new space in the spring of 2022!

Our main goal with the biggest renovation project the French Library has ever undertaken, is to bring us to the 21st century in terms of functionality and comfort, while we keep everything that gives our brownstone its je ne sais quoi, call it charm or soul. And I just have one revolutionary word for you: elevator!

You, our French Library members and friends, have been incredibly generous with your support and well wishes. We very much feel that you all hold us in your thoughts and your hearts, and that has been an invaluable source of comfort. In the coming months, we will continue to offer both online and in-person classes, programs, and events. I hope you will join us. During these difficult times, we all have come to appreciate the importance of communauté, and together, we will strengthen ours.

À bientôt !

Barbara

Barbara Bouquegneau

President and Executive Director

Barbara has worked at the French Library for more than 26 years. Barbara has represented the FL and Alliance Française of Boston throughout the years and was vice-president of the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA. She is committed to pursuing the extraordinary mission of the French Library and believes that the Francophone world is worth exploring in all its different cultures.

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