The city authorities asked the Yves Lion firm of architects to undertake the restoration of the original building, as well as the addition of a new wing on the Rue de Fourcy.

It houses an exhibition center, a large library, an auditorium, and a video viewing facility with a wide selection of films.

Since 1983 it has worked to preserve the photographic patrimony of the libraries, the archives and the museums of the Paris municipality, and it offers its services to other French or foreign institutions too.

The library gathers 24.000 volumes about photography, artists’ books as well as technical or theoretical works, including rare editions.

The Maison Européenne de la Photographie is directed since 1996 by Jean-Luc Monterosso (Director) and Henry Chapier (President).