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The second specialized collection is of a literary nature and devoted to the poet Paul Verlaine, born in Metz in 1844. Since the 1960s, when Metz was awarded a considerable sum from war reparation payments, the library has been acquiring manuscripts, original editions, printer’s proofs and illustrated editions of the works of Verlaine. The collection also comprises relevant documents of an iconographic nature.

The library also houses a copperplate cabinet, a favourite haunt of collectors and art historians. Here an estimated 40,000 items are preserved, either as loose leaves or bound in albums. Approximately 9,000 engravings, 270 drawings and 200 lithographs came from the bequest of Louis Numa de Salis. Part of this spectacular collection disappeared in 1944. Nevertheless, the engravings of Jacques Callot are almost completely preserved. The baron’s collection of drawings and copperplate engravings was supplemented by a further 388 pieces by the Metz-born artist, Jean-Baptiste Le Prince, which were bequested to the library by Victor Jacob. Among the famous engravers whose work is represented in the cabinet belong Sébastien Le Clerc, Bernard Picard, Stephano Della Bella, Israel Henriet and Piranesi (2,000 plates in 27 volumes). In addition, the Metz lithographers of the 19th century and contemporary Lorraine artists are likewise represented.