On Book Lovers Day, August 9th, let’s embark on a global journey to explore some of the most breathtaking libraries. These architectural masterpieces stand as monuments to human creativity and the love of literature.

Here are twelve libraries around the world that are sure to captivate any book enthusiast; especially on Book Lovers Day.

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1. The George Peabody Library, Baltimore, USA

Location: Baltimore, USA

Often hailed as a “cathedral of books,” the George Peabody Library is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Designed by Edmund G. Lind, this five-story library features cast-iron balconies and a magnificent skylight that bathes the space in natural light. With over 300,000 volumes, it’s not just a library but a grand historical treasure.

Unique Book Fact: The library houses one of the largest collections of rare 19th-century books and manuscripts in the United States, including a first edition of Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species.”

2. The Library of Strahov Monastery, Prague, Czech Republic

Location: Prague, Czech Republic

Located within the historic Strahov Monastery, the Strahov Library boasts a Baroque style with ornate frescoes and elegant bookshelves. Founded in the 12th century, it houses over 200,000 volumes, with significant collections in theology and philosophy. Its timeless beauty makes it a must-see for history and book lovers.

Unique Book Fact: The library’s theological hall contains one of the oldest preserved copies of the “Glagolitic Bible,” an early Slavic Bible written in the 9th century.

3. Wiblingen Monastery Library, Ulm, Germany

Location: Ulm, Germany

The Wiblingen Monastery Library is an exquisite example of Rococo architecture. Founded in the 11th century, the library’s ornate design includes elaborate stucco work and frescoes. It houses an impressive collection of manuscripts and early printed books, providing a glimpse into the scholarly past of the region.

Unique Book Fact: The library’s collection includes rare medieval manuscripts, including a beautifully illuminated copy of the “Book of Hours” from the 14th century.

4. Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, New York Public Library, New York City, USA

Location: New York City, USA

The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, part of the New York Public Library, is a grand Beaux-Arts structure renowned for its architectural splendour and historical significance. Opened in 1911, it features a stunning marble façade, grand reading rooms, and the iconic lion statues guarding its entrance. It is a central hub for research and public programs in NYC.

Unique Book Fact: The library’s collection includes an original manuscript of the Declaration of Independence, handwritten by Thomas Jefferson.

5. Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, or Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, is a hidden gem in Rio de Janeiro. Founded in 1837, its neo-Manueline architecture is highlighted by intricate woodwork and a stunning stained glass skylight. It houses over 350,000 volumes, including rare 16th-century works.

Unique Book Fact: The library is home to one of the largest collections of Portuguese literature outside Portugal, including rare editions from the 16th and 17th centuries.

6. Library of the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Spain

Location: Madrid, Spain

The Library of the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a monumental Renaissance building and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by Juan de Herrera, it houses a vast collection of manuscripts and books, including rare and historical texts. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a key cultural site.

Unique Book Fact: The library holds the “Escorial Map,” a rare 16th-century map that is one of the earliest known depictions of the New World.

7. Suwon Starfield Library, Suwon, South Korea

Location: Suwon, South Korea

Opened in 2024, the Suwon Starfield Library is the second in the Starfield Library series, following the renowned COEX Mall location in Seoul. Known for its contemporary design and open spaces, it has quickly become a must-visit destination, celebrated for its Instagram-worthy architecture and extensive collection of books and multimedia resources.

Unique Book Fact: The library features a digital archive of Korean literary classics, allowing visitors to access rare and historical texts through innovative technology.

8. Admont Monastery Library, Admont, Austria

Location: Admont, Austria

The Admont Monastery Library is a Baroque masterpiece with an opulent interior designed by architect Joseph Hueber. Founded in the 11th century, it features elaborate frescoes and one of the largest monastic libraries in the world. The library’s grandeur and historical depth make it a captivating destination.

Unique Book Fact: The library’s collection includes the “Admont Codex,” a 10th-century manuscript containing ancient Gregorian chants and early Christian texts.

9. Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève, Paris, France

Location: Paris, France

Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève is a historical library known for its striking neoclassical façade and ornate reading room. Designed by architect Henri Labrouste, it is renowned for its elegant ironwork and lighting that provides a unique and inviting reading environment.

Unique Book Fact: The library holds a rare manuscript of “Les Évangiles de l’Enfance,” a medieval work that provides insights into early Christian literature and traditions.

10. The Stuttgart City Library, Stuttgart, Germany

Location: Stuttgart, Germany

The Stuttgart City Library is a modern architectural marvel designed by architect Eun Young Yi. Its striking cube-shaped exterior and minimalist interior create a serene and contemporary reading environment. The library’s design emphasizes transparency and openness.

Unique Book Fact: The library’s collection includes an impressive array of international books and digital media, with a special emphasis on promoting digital literacy and innovation.

11. The Library of Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Location: Dublin, Ireland

The Library of Trinity College is renowned for its Long Room, a stunning 18th-century library hall lined with oak bookcases. The library’s Long Room features over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books and manuscripts.

Unique Book Fact: The library is home to the Book of Kells, one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts in the world created by Celtic monks around the 9th century.

12. The Library of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt

Location: Alexandria, Egypt

The Library of Alexandria, a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, features cutting-edge design by architect Snøhetta. It aims to revive the spirit of the original library, which was one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world.

Unique Book Fact: The modern Library of Alexandria houses a vast collection of books and manuscripts, including rare ancient texts and a digital archive that seeks to continue the legacy of its historical predecessor.

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This Book Lovers Day, celebrate the beauty and significance of these magnificent libraries. Each library offers a unique glimpse into the history of knowledge and the enduring love of reading.

Safe travels,

Carina

One Girl and the Big World is a travel blog dedicated to sharing inspiring adventures, practical tips, and unique experiences from around the globe—all available for free to readers.

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