Libraries Worth Visiting

Libraries as cathedrals of knowledge—spaces for deep thinking and architectural beauty

  1. The British Library One of the largest libraries in the world—home to the Magna Carta, Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, and 170+ million items.

  2. The Bodleian Library An ancient library with roots dating back to 1602, used in countless films including Harry Potter.

  3. The John Rylands Library A neo-Gothic masterpiece, housing some of the rarest manuscripts in existence.

  4. Stockholm Public Library Designed by Gunnar Asplund, its circular main hall is one of the most iconic library interiors in the world.

  5. National Library of Sweden The nation’s literary archive, preserving Swedish books, manuscripts, and historical documents.

  6. El Ateneo Grand Splendid A former grand theater turned into one of the most beautiful bookstores and reading spaces in the world.

  7. New York Public Library An iconic Beaux-Arts building in Manhattan, featuring the famous Rose Main Reading Room.

  8. Trinity College Library Home to the Book of Kells and the breathtaking Long Room with its towering oak shelves.

  9. Beinecke Rare Book Library Yale’s architectural marvel with translucent marble walls that create a unique reading environment.

  10. Library of Alexandria (Modern) A contemporary homage to the ancient library, designed to be a beacon of learning in Egypt.