The new ludotheque for Parthenay-Gâtine, designed to be larger, more visible, and open to both players and professionals, is taking shape in the former Post Office. This structuring facility for the territory, a vector of local identity and attractiveness, extends the dynamic of the Parthenay International Games Festival (FLIP) throughout the year.
Relocating the facility to the heart of Parthenay addresses several objectives: creating a more functional and innovative space, enhancing its visibility, giving it a new identity by fostering links with the FLIP and establishing a third-place space for experimentation. The project also includes collaborative spaces for game industry professionals to develop a network of publishers as a 'playful laboratory'.
In anticipation of the works, the loan of games at the current ludotheque will be temporarily suspended. Subscribers are invited to collect their reserved games before October 31, 2026. Games must be returned between January and April 2027 at 5 Rue Jean-Macé, by appointment. Current subscriptions will be extended upon reopening. Playful activities will be offered throughout the territory before next summer.
The future ludotheque aims to contribute to children's socialization and social inclusion by facilitating access through extended hours and physical accessibility. The team is focusing on the future operation of the venue, user reception, and support, with key areas including integration into the SouRces library network for game lending, restocking games primarily from FLIP collections, and strengthening communication with monthly game recommendations.
The former Post Office building, constructed in the 1960s, will undergo a transformation to become an energy-efficient building while preserving its brutalist architecture. The complete renovation of the ground floor (approximately 600 m²) will include varied play areas, including for early childhood, and thermal insulation aimed at reducing the facility's consumption by 77%. Existing facades will be retained, except for the replacement of exterior joinery and modification of the East quay.
The works, which began at the end of July 2026, are expected to conclude in the summer of 2027. The total estimated cost is €1,116,099.40 excluding tax. Funding is provided by the CCPG (40.8%), the State (9%), the regional council (7.2%), SIEDS (20.6%), and CAF (22.4%).
