About CIRA: Mission and Historical Context
CIRA was established to safeguard anarchist documentary heritage that was often dispersed or marginalized. Its foundation was a collaborative effort by Italian and French conscientious objectors, a Bulgarian refugee, and a Swiss anarchist—reflecting the internationalist values central to its ethos (CIRA Archives). Since 1989, it has been based at Avenue de Beaumont 24, Lausanne.
Its mission encompasses:
- Preservation Collecting and securing anarchist and libertarian literature, periodicals, posters, and audiovisual materials from the 19th century to the present.
- Accessibility Promoting open access to its resources, both on-site and digitally, for researchers and the public.
- Community Engagement Hosting events, workshops, and exhibitions to foster critical debate and solidarity around social justice and anti-authoritarianism (CIRA Actualités).
CIRA collaborates with global institutions, including the International Institute for Social History and the Fédération internationale des centres d’étude et de documentation libertaires (FICEDL), and is recognized by the Swiss National Library as a key resource for anarchist studies (Swiss National Library).
Library Holdings
CIRA houses approximately 20,000 books and brochures in over forty languages, with strong holdings in French, Italian, Spanish, German, and English. Thematically, the collection covers anarchist theory, history, biographies, and activism from 1848 to the present (CIRA Resources).
- Notable Authors Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, Mikhail Bakunin, Emma Goldman, Peter Kropotkin, among others.
- Pamphlets & Brochures Grassroots publications and local movement documents.
- Periodicals Nearly 4,000 journal titles (about 100 currently active), spanning historical and contemporary debate (CIRA Catalogue).
Archival and Documentary Collections
- Personal, Group, and Organizational Archives Preserving correspondence, manuscripts, organizational records, and personal papers, with coverage from 1833 onward and a focus on 1890–2000 (CIRA Resources – Archives).
- Ephemera Flyers, press clippings, posters (over 4,000), photographs, illustrations, and postcards.
- Audio-Visual Materials Hundreds of tapes and recordings, including interviews and event footage.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
- Tuesday to Friday 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (occasionally, check ahead)
- Sunday and Monday Closed
For special closures or extended hours, always check the CIRA website.
Admission and Membership
- Entry Free for all visitors.
- Membership Annual reader’s card (40 CHF or 40 EUR) allows borrowing of most books and brochures and includes the annual bulletin. Support memberships start at 100 CHF/EUR.
- Borrowing Policy Books and brochures may be borrowed; periodicals and archival documents are for on-site consultation.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible premises.
- Multilingual staff available for support.
- Contact CIRA in advance for specific needs.
Guided Tours and Events
- Tours Available upon request; advance booking recommended for groups or researchers.
- Events Regular lectures, exhibitions, workshops, and communal gatherings announced on the CIRA Actualités.
Practical Tips
- Use the online catalogue to prepare for your visit.
- Arrive early to maximize research time.
- Photocopying and scanning of archival materials is possible, subject to preservation rules and copyright.
- Most staff and volunteers are multilingual (French, English, Italian, German, Spanish).
How to Get There
- Address Avenue de Beaumont 24, CH-1012 Lausanne, Switzerland.
- By Metro Line M2 to “CHUV” stop; CIRA is a short walk from there.
- By Car Use the “Hôpitaux” exit; public parking available nearby.
- Nearby Amenities Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, and city parks in the area.
Nearby Attractions
- Olympic Museum Sports history exhibitions.
- Lausanne Cathedral Gothic landmark.
- Parc de Mon Repos Scenic spot for relaxation.
- Musée de l’Elysée Renowned photography museum.
- Hermitage Foundation Art exhibitions.
Digital Access and Remote Research Tools
- Catalogue and Archives Search holdings and published inventories online (CIRA Catalogue).
- Digital Publications Access annual bulletins and select digital exhibitions (CIRA Bulletin).
- Remote Borrowing Members can borrow recent books and brochures by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are CIRA’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Friday, 4:00 PM–7:00 PM; check for Saturday openings and special events.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free. Borrowing privileges require a 40 CHF/EUR annual membership.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Contact in advance for group visits.
Q: Is CIRA accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the premises are wheelchair accessible.
Q: Can I borrow materials remotely?
A: Members can borrow recent books and brochures by mail; archival materials must be consulted on-site.
Q: Does CIRA host public events?
A: Yes, including lectures, exhibitions, and workshops. See the CIRA Actualités for details.
Discover More
CIRA Lausanne stands as Europe’s premier anarchist archive, offering unparalleled resources for research, activism, and cultural engagement. Its open-access collections, inclusive ethos, and active programming make it a vital destination for anyone interested in the history, theory, or practice of anarchism. To support CIRA’s mission, consider becoming a member or making a donation. Stay informed through the official website and social media, and make the most of your visit to Lausanne by exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings.
Plan your visit, join the community, and help sustain this unique institution for generations to come.
