• A water leak at the Louvre damaged around 400 books in the Egyptian antiquities department.
• The incident occurs after recent security lapses, including a jewel heist.
• Repairs for the water damage are scheduled for 2026.
• The leak was caused by an issue in an old heating and ventilation system.
• No rare or unique items were lost in the incident.

A substantial water leak at the Louvre Museum in Paris has led to damage affecting between 300 and 400 books and research journals in the museum's Egyptian antiquities department. This incident underscores the deteriorating condition of one of the world's most visited museums, just weeks after a dramatic jewel heist highlighted serious security flaws, according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and South China Morning Post.

The leak, discovered on November 26, was attributed to an accidental valve opening in an aging heating system, allowing water to seep through the ceiling of the department housing these works. Francis Steinbock, the Louvre's deputy administrator, clarified that the damaged books are primarily Egyptology journals dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which are frequently used for research but not recognized as unique treasures, according to India Times, Reuters, and South China Morning Post.

While the museum plans to restore the damaged items, the issue reflects broader concerns over its infrastructure. Earlier incidents, including a jewel theft on October 19 valued at $102 million, have cast further doubt on the management of the museum's facilities. A recent report by France's public audit body highlighted excessive spending on acquiring new artworks at the expense of necessary renovations. Repairs for the leak are anticipated to commence in September 2026, as the Louvre continues to attract millions of visitors annually, according to Channel News Asia, India Times, and South China Morning Post.