Bookworms and avid readers everywhere have their list of must-reads, but what about the many incredible libraries containing them? With so many iconic, historic and truly gorgeous libraries around the world, any family member with the slightest affection for reading (or architecture) can get behind this list.
Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
Maybe obvious, sure, but definitely a worthy library for your list. A cultural and historical icon in the United States, the Library of Congress is a national library, the country’s oldest federal cultural institution and consists of three buildings lined with the largest collection of volumes and shelf space — a.k.a. more than 32 million books amid a stunning interior space.
Vatican Library in Vatican City, Rome, Italy
You can bet almost any library in historic Rome will be beautiful, but the Vatican Library is truly something special. Part of the Catholic Church in Rome, the Vatican Library is one of the oldest in the world. First opening in 1475, this space actually dates back to the early days of the Catholic church.
Vatican Library. Photo: Lev Tsimbler | Dreamstime.com
Bodleian Library in Oxford, United Kingdom
It wouldn’t be a complete list of travel-worthy libraries without the iconic Bodleian Library in Oxford. One of the oldest libraries in Europe, Bodleian is home to 11 million items and artifacts, and was even the set of a few famous scenes in Young Sherlock Holmes, The Golden Compass and more.
National Library Of St. Mark’s in Venice, Italy
Venice offers one of the most unique landscapes in the world, so one could assume any library along the water would be a stunner. Enter the National Library of St. Mark’s. Located in a locale remaining from the Renaissance, this library dates back to 1537, with collection items from the 1400s. This iconic Venetian landmark is as historically significant and architecturally impressive from the inside and it is from the outside.
Boston Public Library in Boston, Massachusetts
If you’re feeling like a late-night study session or want the trying-to-crack-the-case vibe, Boston Public Library is the place. Green-shaded lamps, check. Long communal, wooden tables, check. High arched ceilings with matching arched windows, check. This stunner dates back to the 1800s and checks all the boxes of your kid’s library dreams.
Boston Public Library. Photo: Glenn Nagel | Dreamstime.com
Abbey Library Of Saint Gall in St. Gallen, Switzerland
A complete curve ball on the list in terms of aesthetics, the Abbey Library of Saint Gall is the oldest library in Switzerland and named for an abbey of the same name, dating back to 719 —also making this one of the world’s oldest monastery libraries in the world. Picture glass display cases filled with historic manuscripts and lines of books leading up to an ornately decorated ceiling — matched by an equally dazzling floor. Top to bottom, this locale is a true beauty.
Trinity College Library in Dublin, Ireland
Also known as the Long Room, Trinity College Library in Dublin is a worthy stop on any book lover’s vacation. Spread over four separate buildings, the Old Library was built in 1592 and is still a top tourist draw in the city to this day.
Reading Room At The British Museum in London, England
Back to the United Kingdom for The Reading Room at the British Museum in London. Located in the center of the Museum’s Great Court with a domed exterior, the interior is incredibly unique. From the papier-mâché ceiling to the Reading Room’s history, once welcoming notable guests including Mark Twain, Karl Marx, Oscar Wilde and many others, this spot should be on every literary lover’s list.
Warsaw University Library in Warsaw, Poland
One of the more modern and unique buildings on our list, Warsaw University Library in Poland’s capital city is an architectural wonder. With pops of color, greenery growing along the walls, domed-glass veiling interior and landscapes to stun, this library is more like a greenhouse-meets-art project than anything else. Check out the seemingly endless aisles of books within, amid a clean-lined room with bright light, contrast against the vibrant green and purple hues of the exterior. Walk along the Library Garden and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Warsaw University Public Library. Photo: Sergio Delle Vedove | Dreamstime.com
New York Public Library in New York, New York
Last, but certainly not least: The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library. Enjoy Bryant Park’s quieter side, with the general research division’s long wooden tables, chandeliers and ornate, stunning ceiling — which could be classified as a work of art. Read by the light pouring in the arched windows, or browse around the library’s many rooms, exhibits and occasional events. Stop at the gift shop or take a picture on the entrance steps. Feel like a local and grab lunch and picnic on a bench with a view.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedParents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024What’s New in Billings, Montana, This Spring and Summer
Plan your spring or summer family travel to Billings, Montana, this year. The largest city in the state offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024Where to Tiptoe Through Tulips in the United States
First brought to the United States by Dutch immigrants in the late 1600s, tulips have become a colorful symbol of spring throughout the country and a popular spring and summer spot for family travelers. You don’t need to travel far to find them blooming in front yards and, in spring, displays of tulips paint parks and botanic gardens from Maine to Texas. A few places go all out with annual tulip festivals that are perfect spring trips for families.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations / Caribbean
Apr 23, 2024Family Fun Awaits at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives
Celebrate the warm weather with family travel to the sun-kissed shores of Aruba. Here, you’ll find Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives, a family-friendly resort filled with endless activities for all ages. This property features 10 all-inclusive dining options, four freshwater pools, eight bars and more.
ShareThis