Urgent: Water Leak at Louvre Museum Damages 400 Books, Strike Looms

UPDATE: A significant water leak at the Louvre Museum has damaged between 300 and 400 books in its library, sparking urgent calls for renovations and a looming strike. This incident, first reported on November 26, underscores the museum’s deteriorating infrastructure, prompting a warning of a rolling strike from three cultural unions starting Monday, December 15.

The revelation of water damage emerged just as the museum grapples with security and structural concerns. Following a brazen theft of the nation’s crown jewels in October, the Louvre faces increased scrutiny over its maintenance and visitor experience. A spokesperson for the Louvre declined to comment on the strike notice.

In a statement, Francis Steinbock, the museum’s deputy director general, confirmed that while no “patrimony works” were affected, the leak highlights severe issues within the institution. This water damage comes shortly after a temporary closure of a Greek Ceramics gallery due to ceiling concerns.

The Louvre’s director, Laurence des Cars, has previously sounded alarms about the museum’s condition in a leaked memo to the Ministry of Culture, advocating for a comprehensive renovation plan dubbed “Nouvelle Renaissance.” This ten-year overhaul aims to address structural problems and enhance security.

As part of the funding strategy, visitors from outside the European Economic Area will face a staggering 45% increase in entry fees starting in January 2026. Unions have labeled this fee hike as “particularly criminal,” arguing it contradicts the principle of equality in public service access. This controversial move has intensified tensions, leading to the unions’ joint notice to the Ministry of Culture today.

The unions, including the Syndicat National des Musées et Domaines and Confédération Générale du Travail, are demanding the cancellation of the fee hike and the allocation of funds from Abu Dhabi’s licensing of the Louvre brand for renovations instead of new construction projects. Their concerns extend to staffing, as they highlight chronic understaffing and overwork in front-facing roles, which led to an impromptu labor strike in June.

With the museum’s future hanging in the balance, this situation is rapidly developing. Visitors and art lovers alike are urged to stay updated as the Louvre prepares for potential disruptions starting next week. The unions are emphasizing the need for urgent attention to both the physical condition of the museum and the welfare of its staff.

As the world watches, the Louvre Museum faces a critical moment that could reshape its operations and visitor experience. More updates are expected as this situation unfolds.