Libraries have always held a special place in my heart. The chance to read, study, and learn in a peaceful environment, and all for free, is a privilege that I believe should be accessible to people worldwide. As I began traveling, libraries also became a refuge from homesickness and travel worries. Settling into a seat, grabbing a book, and immersing myself in its pages became my go-to travel reset.
The world is home to some truly incredible libraries, ranging from ancient parchment collections to modern architectural wonders. The grandeur of these libraries can be as captivating as the stories they contain.
To celebrate National Library Week, I reached out to my Instagram community, asking them to share unique libraries in their hometowns, as well as sharing some of my favorites.
John Rylands Library, Manchester:
The late-Victorian architecture of John Rylands Library in Manchester creates an atmosphere that transports you to another era. Still open to the public and now part of the University of Manchester, it feels like a real-life Hogwarts studying room, making it a highlight of any visit to the city.
Mafra Palace Library, Portugal:
Less than an hour from Lisbon, the Mafra Palace dominates the city of Mafra. This UNESCO-listed palace, dating back to 1717, houses a library that unfortunately, I couldn’t explore fully during my visit in Summer 2020. However, its historical significance and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts.
Anna Amalia Library, Weimar, Germany:
Weimar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the Anna Amalia Library, which suffered a tragic fire in 2004. Despite the damage, a dedicated restorative team managed to revive around 60,000 volumes and restore the grand interior. The library, part of a royal art collection dating back to 1552, is a testament to the town’s intellectual heritage.
Biblioteca di Brera, Milan:
Nestled in my favorite area of Milan, Brera, the Biblioteca di Brera is one of Italy’s largest libraries. Its collection spans scientific, legal, and historic texts, blending historic elements with modern computers and a vibrant student atmosphere. The impressive architecture and courtyard add to its grandeur, making it a must-visit in this hip area of Milano.
Trinity College Library, Dublin:
Before indulging in too much Guinness in Dublin, I explored the cultural richness of Trinity College Library. As the largest library in Ireland, its 18th-century building houses over 200,000 books in the imposing ‘long room.’ The library also proudly displays the ‘Book of Kells,’ a world-famous gospel manuscript dating back to the 9th century.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookshop, Argentina:
While not a traditional library, this grand building in Buenos Aires was originally a performing arts venue. Converted into one of South America’s largest bookstores, it retained its theatrical charm. Visitors can browse the store, find cozy corners to read, and sometimes even enjoy live piano music.
Klementinum, Prague, Czech Republic:
Regrettably, I missed visiting the Klementinum on my trips to Prague. Claiming to be ‘the most beautiful library in the world,’ it’s one of the largest building complexes in Europe. Guided tours take visitors through its grandeur, showcasing astronomical clocks and a collection of 20,000 books. I can’t wait to witness its beauty firsthand on a future visit.
Yusuhara Community Library, Kochi, Japan:
Unexpectedly stumbling upon a library designed by Kengo Kuma, the architect behind the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Stadium, was a highlight of my trip to Japan. Located in Yusuhara, this picturesque library pays homage to woodwork, with dramatic wooden beams, a grand piano, and cozy corners. The wooden cube-like design outside blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Biblioteca Joanina, Coimbra, Portugal:
Completed in 1728, the Biblioteca Joanina is a three-floor library part of the University of Coimbra. Towering dark wood bookshelves contrast against ornate gold doorways, creating a breathtaking space. The academic prison underneath adds an extra layer of intrigue to this grand building.
The Public Library, New York:
A global icon, The Public Library in New York is renowned for its vast collection and as a venue for talks and presentations. With over 50 million items, the collection, curated over 150 years, provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Carolina Rediviva, Uppsala, Sweden:
Mixing clean-white bookshelves with chandeliers, Carolina Rediviva is a gem completed in 1841. Its main hall, housing some 5 million books, showcases light colors and imposing light pieces. The collection includes the ‘Silver Bible,’ a 6th-century rare manuscript, and handwritten music notations by Mozart.
The National Library of Finland:
A chance discovery after exploring Helsinki Cathedral, the National Library of Finland impresses with its white, futuristic curved ceilings. While the Helsinki University Library has won awards for its modern design, the National Library offers a more traditional atmosphere with domed ceilings and intricate artwork.
Stuttgart City Library, Germany:
Opened in 2011, the ultra-modern Stuttgart City Library stands in stark contrast to its sister in Weimar. The 40-meter high public library room features sharp lines and large square windows that come alive at night. Inside, well-placed staircases and leading lines make it not only an Instagram-worthy spot but also a perfect place to dive into a favorite novel.
Lincoln College Library, Oxford, UK:
Housed in a converted church, the Lincoln College Library in Oxford is a stunning University study space. Reopened in 1975, the 18th-century All Saints Church retains its grandeur, attracting visitors not just for its literature but also for the architectural marvel it has become. Visiting Lincoln College during stipulated hours offers a glimpse into the fusion of history and academia.
In exploring these diverse libraries around the world, I’ve come to appreciate the rich tapestry of human knowledge and creativity that they represent. Each library, with its unique architecture and collection, contributes to the collective wisdom of humanity. Whether ancient or modern, these libraries are not just repositories of books but living embodiments of our cultural heritage.
