Envision book lovers. Imagine yourselves stepping into a realm where literature takes an extraordinary form at La caverne aux livres.
La caverne aux livres isn’t just a bookstore. It is a unique destination in Auvers-sur-Oise. It offers a literary experience unlike any other.
Picture this. Three former postal wagons transformed into a haven for book enthusiasts. This transformation happened thanks to Philippe Ferry. He was a former journalist with a passion for books. He established La caverne aux livres in 1989.
For over 30 years these wagons remained near the Passage des Tournesols. They were overgrown with foliage. In 2017 the municipality bought them. They cleared the overgrowth and turned them into a remarkable bookstore.
Today the wagons are painted in a striking bordeaux color. This is because postal wagons were bordeaux before 1940. This detail was found by Antoine Ferry. He is Philippe’s son. Antoine took over the business at the beginning of the millennium.
Inside La caverne aux livres vintage inscriptions adorn the walls. They were inspired by the years 1945 to 1950. The Cercle historique du rail français helped document the wagons’ history. Daniel Vauvillier was a member. He provided historical context for the restoration.
Original mail sorting compartments now display books and objects. La caverne aux livres has become an integral part of the town’s cultural circuit.
Isabelle Mézières is the mayor. She says Auvers is about passion. She wants to pass it on to future generations and showcase the town’s heritage.
Some residents have mixed feelings about the changes. Michelle Ysebaert knew the founder. She thinks it is perfect and cleaner now. Sarah is a local teenager. She appreciates the integration of La caverne aux livres into the town’s history. But she misses the old mysterious vibe.
One of the three wagons fell askew during the move. It is the one with books about trains. Antoine Ferry plans to empty it and restore order. There are thousands of books inside.
La caverne aux livres is open Thursdays and Fridays from 2 PM to 6 PM. It is also open Saturdays Sundays and holidays from 11 AM to 6 PM.
Step inside La caverne aux livres. You will discover a literary treasure. It is a place where the past and present converge. It offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. It is more than just a bookstore. La caverne aux livres is a testament to the enduring power of books. It also shows the magic of imagination. It invites everyone to explore. It encourages visitors to discover the stories waiting within.