We’ve all heard that the books are our friends—well, they have some of the best friends, too! Today I want to share with you my top ten must-visit libraries around the world (in no particular order). If you love books and libraries, you’re sure to enjoy these museums as well as these bookstores around the world . From libraries in Africa and Asia to those in Europe and North America, here are some of the most beautiful libraries from around the world . Where will your next library visit be?
1.The Morgan Library & Museum (New York City)
The Morgan Library & Museum is a private library and museum in Manhattan, New York City. It was established by J. Pierpont Morgan as a memorial to his father, Junius Spencer Morgan, and was designed by Charles McKim of the renowned architectural firm McKim, Mead & White. The building was completed in 1906 and it opened to the public two years later in 1908.
2.Sterling Memorial Library (Yale University, New Haven, CT)
This library houses more than 8 million volumes and is one of the largest university research libraries in North America. Sterling has a famous ceiling mural, The Apotheosis of Democracy, by French artist Paul Désaugiers. The artwork is a visual representation of democracy as an eagle spreading its wings above people from all walks of life.
3,La Paz Centro Cultural (La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico)
La Paz Centro Cultural is a public library that offers books in Spanish, English, French and German. It also provides access to computers with internet access, as well as music and movies. The building itself is an architectural gem, designed by Carlos A. Romero in 1986. La Paz Centro Cultural was designed specifically to house a public library and has become one of the most visited buildings in La Paz since its opening.
4.Miami Dade Main Library (Miami, FL)
The Miami Dade Main Library is not just one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, but it’s also one of the busiest. This library offers millions of volumes of books, magazines and newspapers, which can be accessed through its state-of-the-art digital catalog. The library also hosts a variety of programs for children and adults alike, such as book clubs or workshops on subjects like computer skills. If you’re looking for a place to study or read for free, then this is your spot!
5.Hunt Branch Library (Fort Wayne, IN)
Huntington Branch Library, located in Huntington, IN, is a must-visit for book lovers. Located only about an hour away from Fort Wayne, this library has been serving the people of Huntington and surrounding areas for over 100 years. The library was originally built in 1911 on land donated by philanthropist George Huntington. Over the past century and a half, it has seen many improvements including an addition to help meet the needs of its growing community.
6.Stuttgart Public Library (Stuttgart, Germany)
The Stuttgart Public Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in Germany. The library was designed by architect Bruno Schmitz and opened in 1967. With a classical facade and a modern interior, it’s no surprise that this library has been named one of the top ten public libraries in Europe by Architectural Review magazine. The building features a large hexagonal atrium with an amazing glass roof, which floods natural light into every corner.
7.The Morbid Anatomy Museum Library Collection and Reading Room (Brooklyn, NY)
The Morbid Anatomy Museum’s Library Collection and Reading Room is a must-see for every book lover. The museum houses a collection of more than 12,000 books on topics ranging from anatomy to art, many of which are rare and first editions. Visitors are invited to browse through an extensive library while seated at one of six reading desks.
Admission to the museum is free, but it costs $5 for a day pass that grants access to all exhibits.
8.New York Public Library – Mid-Manhattan Branch (New York City)
The New York Public Library, located in Manhattan and with branches in The Bronx and Staten Island, is the second largest public library in North America. It contains over 50 million items on 838 miles of bookshelves. One of its most popular collections, besides periodicals and children’s literature, is its music collection where you can find recordings by artists such as John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and many others.
9.Spalding Memorial Library (Spalding University, Louisville, KY)
Spalding Memorial Library is one of America’s most beautiful libraries. The building, which was designed by architect Cass Gilbert, is a National Historic Landmark and has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spalding Library is also located on campus at Spalding University in Louisville, Kentucky. It opened in 1918 and was named after Thomas A.
10.The Free University of Bozen–Bolzano Central Library (Bozen/Bolzano, Italy)
Libraries are always a wonderful place to explore and in that sense, there is something for everyone. We have selected ten of the most beautiful libraries from around the world so you can discover some new favorites. There’s everything from ancient temples converted into libraries to opulent buildings with stained glass windows, making them all worth exploring.