Founded in 1818, the Société de Lecture (SDL) is a cultural institution nestled in Geneva’s Old Town. Housed in an 18th-century building, the SDL serves as a hub for relaxed intellectual exchange. Functioning as a library with an extensive book collection, the Société de Lecture also hosts diverse cultural events, including a full rich program of literary conferences, debates, workshops, and even yoga classes. Notably, it offers a diverse program for children.
Pierre Béguin leads monthly discussions on classic literature, linking timeless texts to today’s world through lively, open conversation.
Upcoming themes:
First session readings:
Pierre Béguin taught literature for nearly 30 years at Collège Calvin in Geneva. Born in Geneva, he holds a degree in literature and a postgraduate diploma in psycholinguistics. A passionate traveler, he has devoted the past two decades primarily to writing. He is the author of around ten novels, including Terre de personne (Prix Schiller 2005), Vous ne connaîtrez ni le jour ni l’heure (Prix Chronos selection, 2013), Condamné au bénéfice du doute (Prix Edouard Rod 2016), and La scandaleuse Madame B. (2020). His most recent novel, Au nom du feu (2022), was shortlisted for the RTS Listeners’ Prize, the Lettres Frontière Prize, and the Rambert Prize.
In French.
Claire Messud, American novelist and former Harvard professor, is the author of acclaimed novels including The Emperor’s Children and The Burning Girl. Her international upbringing informs her writing on identity, family and memory. In conversation with Kasmira Jefford, she discusses her latest novel, This Strange Eventful History, which traces one family’s history across generations, revealing interwoven perspectives, withheld secrets and recurring themes. The discussion examines narrative voice, memory and the ethics of fictionalising family.
In English.
Learn and play chess in a lively, hands-on workshop for children and adults. Beginners will discover rules, pieces and basic tactics through games and exercises. Children are split into three groups by age and experience: 4–6-year-olds learn the rules; false beginners practise checkmates and tactical combinations; older kids build tactical awareness and strategic thinking. Adults receive practical coaching on openings and key themes, with guidance from Grandmaster Clovis Vernay. An exercise booklet is provided to every child.
Kids ages 4–13.
Pascale Frey is a literary journalist and former books editor at La Tribune de Genève. She has written for Lire and ELLE and now shares her literary favourites on Instagram (@pascale_frey).
This reading circle focuses on contemporary fiction: new releases, authors to discover, prize contenders and notable reissues. A friendly, participatory monthly meeting for staying up to date with the literary scene.
In French.
Pascale Frey is a literary journalist and former books editor at La Tribune de Genève. She has written for Lire and ELLE and now shares her literary favourites on Instagram (@pascale_frey).
This reading circle focuses on contemporary fiction: new releases, authors to discover, prize contenders and notable reissues. A friendly, participatory monthly meeting for staying up to date with the literary scene.
In French.
The Apéro Concert d’Été offers a relaxed and convivial musical experience that blends live performance with the spirit of Geneva’s summer evenings. Bringing together audiences in an intimate and festive atmosphere, the event combines quality music, cultural discovery, and social exchange around an open-air apéritif setting. Designed as a moment of encounter and celebration, it highlights local artistic talent while creating a warm and accessible space where music, conversation, and seasonal conviviality come together naturally.
Culture, curated weekly.
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