These libraries are a book lover’s haven. From Dublin to Tokyo, they all have a strange sense of belonging and beguilement.
1. The Old Library at Trinity College Dublin
Located in the heart of Dublin City, The Old Library at Trinity College houses the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure and the world’s most famous medieval manuscript. The 9th-century book is a richly decorated copy of the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ.
Source: Book of Kells
2. New York Public Library
More than one million books were set in place for the official dedication of the Library on May 23, 1911. The Rose Main Reading Room is stunning with its immaculate rows of reading tables and prominent lamps. It hosts more than 51 million items in research and circulating collections and is proud of its digital and technological advancements.
On a side note who can forget the fact that Carrie Bradshaw was supposed to marry Mr. Big at this New York landmark building. Sigh!
Source: The New York Public Library
3. Tama Art University Library Tokyo
Bethany Ciullo/Flickr
The minimalist design and abundant arches at the Tama Art University definitely makes it a stand-out on this list. With wide open galleries and an abundance of natural light; it encourages creativity and a feeling of inclusion. The building was completed in 2007 after three years of construction.
Source: Arch Daily
4. Austrian National Library
Hernán Piñera/Flickr
This magnificent baroque library with its stunning murals is a must-visit if you find yourself in Vienna. With frescos, globes, and books dating back to the 15th century, this part of the Hofburg palace will definitely transport you back in time.
Source: Austrian National Library
5. Stuttgart City Library
The floor plan of Stuttgart City Library is pure equilibrium. An OCD person’s sanctuary. This stunning crystalline cube has a glass roof that illuminates the 9-storey promenades.
Source: Arch Daily
6. Starhov Library Prague
The Starhov Monastery Library in Prague, established in the 18th century, is decorated with fresco paintings and contains a large number of medieval manuscripts. The Theological Hall contains astronomical and geographical globes, with some dating back to the 16th century.
Source: Starhov Library
7. State Library Victoria
The State Library Victoria is Australias oldest library. The library opened in 1856. The picture depicts the dome reading room, also known as La Trobe reading room, can hold up to 600 reader sand millions of books.
Source: State Library Victoria
8. Weston Library, University of Oxford
Famously nicknamed ‘The Bod’, the Bodelian Libraries are located at the prestigious University of Oxford in London. The library holds over 12 million items and is the second largest library in Britain and one of the oldest libraries in the world.
Source: Bodleian
9. Royal Portuguese Reading Room
Situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, this Brazilain library contains the largest collection of Portuguese texts. Opened in 1887, it houses over 400,000 volumes of Portuguese works. The reading room is flanked by 3 storeys of dark wooden galleries. This one should be on the top of your bucket list.
Source: World Top Top
10. The Richelieu-Louvois Library Paris
Established in the 18th century the Richelieu houses manuscripts from the earliest human writings. It also contains the early works in prints, photography, and collections of music.
Source: Bibliothèque Nationale de France