These Libraries Are in Our Good Books
There’s a lot to consider before picking your campus. Will you stay in residence? What do the programs look like? How much will they drain from your bank account? While those are all good questions, call us crazy, but we’re focusing on something else: the libraries! Strap on your backpack and come with us as we stroll the most legendary (and breathtaking) halls across America.
Patrick Gillespie on Wikimedia
1. Linderman Library, Lehigh University
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about stunning libraries? Rare tomes? Stained glass windows? Iconic structures built in 1878? You’ll find it all in this incredible building, located in a private university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. It’s a haven for just about any book-lover—with 40,000 rare books tucked on their shelves, you can find first editions, Darwin’s writings, and even 16th-century atlases!
Joseph Giansante '76 on Wikimedia
2. Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Yale University
Beinecke isn’t much on the outside; the simple building looks more like a prison than a library of rare books. Step inside, however, and you’re greeted with an unfathomable collection of texts and exhibits! It’s the largest building dedicated to such a collection, and it’s been standing tall since 1963.
3. Firestone Library, Princeton University
Libraries often conjure images of a nice stone fireplace, but this building had a little something different in mind. Established in 1948, it was the first large American university library built after World War II. The exterior maintains its historical aesthetic, while the inside boasts a more modern feel, filled with study rooms, rare books, and fascinating architecture.
Photo: Andreas Praefcke on Wikimedia
4. Bapst Art Library, Boston College
Boston is already home to some of the most significant institutions, but don’t count out the libraries! The Bapst Art Library has been around since 1925, and visitors can still explore what was once the original Boston College Library—or stand godsmacked in Gargan Hall.
5. Uris Library, Cornell University
Built way back in 1891, Uris Library is the oldest library building at Cornell. It comes with all the fixin’s of a traditional experience: intricate architecture, millions of books to peruse, and even an attached bell tower. It’s quite literally like stepping into history.
Detroit Publishing Company on Wikimedia
6. Fisher Fine Arts Library, University of Pennsylvania
We have Frank Furness to thank for this library’s Gothic architecture. To simply stand outside is to witness the cathedral-esque tower and terra cotta work, but inside is somehow even more amazing. Opened in 1890, you might not even get a chance to glance at the books—you’ll be too busy gawking at your surroundings.
7. George Peabody Library, Johns Hopkins University
First established in 1848, this library still holds all the original charm of its inception. Sure, you have at least 50,000 books available, but the real magic lies in the interior. Skylights and stone pillars transport you back to the 19th century, while several stories of bookshelves give you plenty to pick from.
8. Suzzallo Library, University of Washington
Washington’s reading room looks straight out of Harry Potter—if that sort of thing means anything to you. Even if you aren’t a fan of the series, you’ll stand in awe of the vaulted ceiling and hand-carved friezes. At least, we hope you will, because construction took 37 years!
9. Jerome Library, Bowling Green
It’s hard to believe that a building constructed in the 1960s would boast such an incredible mural, but you won’t miss Jerome Library when you see it. The outside artwork already pulls in students and visitors alike, but the light cast inside is just as captivating.
10. James B. Hunt Library, North Carolina State University
So far, the libraries on this list have focused more on historical architecture—but contemporary designs hold a special place in our hearts, too. Say hello to this modern 2013 structure! It’s filled with five floors of murals and colorful furniture, and its sleek look even won it the Library Building Award.
11. Cook Legal Research Library, University of Michigan
A 1931 building comprised of metal work and stained glass windows? Count us in. This building still carries an extensive collection of research material, with multiple floors added since its inception to accommodate the growing number of books and documents. Call us guilty, but we’re suckers for the Gothic architecture, too.
12. Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, University of Chicago
When “The Bubble” first popped on the scene in 2011, scholars knew they were in for something special. Sure enough, this building cleaned up with awards and nominations for its design—and it’s easy to see why! That's one way to score a late-night view.
13. Geisel Library, University of California: San Diego
To look at this futuristic building is to assume modern construction, but it was actually built in the ‘70s! The exterior looks like a set of hands holding knowledge-hungry students in its palm, but perhaps most intriguing is the Dr. Seuss collection. Fans of the series can score original sketches, notebooks, and even first drafts.
14. Hillman Library, University of Pittsburgh
Hillman is a gargantuan concrete building, one that looks more menacing than it is. Though simple on the outside, this 1968 structure carries millions of titles, rare collections, and themed rooms for students. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light, as well, so there’s never a bad seat in the house.
15. Hoose Library of Philosophy, University of Southern California
Okay, maybe that philosophy degree didn’t get you very far, but that’s no reason to turn your nose up at this library! You can grab any number of rare reads and take a seat beneath their stained glass windows, all of which were installed back in 1929. It’s also been dubbed another Hogwarts, so there’s something for every bookworm.
16. Powell Library, UCLA
It took three years to complete UCLA’s library, and that 1900s architecture continues to stand tall. Modeled after the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, students can crack a few spines in the iconic reading room or merely stand in awe of the historic masonry.
17. Butler Library, Columbia University
Nestled between the spectacular book collection and rare artifacts, students can indulge in any number of gems—including a 1954 stained glass window of Peter Stuyvesant. This library was established way back in 1934, and remains a testament to literature and legacy!
18. Hale Library, Kansas State University
If you’ve ever dreamt about reading books in a castle, Hale Library is the place for you. While not technically fit for a king, its impressive stone work and interior murals are the next best thing. It first opened in 1927 and has seen countless revisions since then, but it never lost any of its worth.
No machine-readable author provided. Kzollman assumed (based on copyright claims). on Wikimedia
19. William R. Perkins Library, Duke University
Originally opened in 1930, Duke’s library displays a majestic Gothic exterior. It’s a library no bookworm would dare to leave, and we can hardly blame them! With millions of books and dozens of historic paintings, it’s the perfect place to get lost for a while.
20. Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, Harvard University
When you think about Harvard, you likely think of libraries and lawyers alike. But when was the last time you thought about the illustrious Widener Library—the campus’s biggest library? Antiques, marble work, and millions of books lie just behind its doors, not to mention nearly 60 miles of shelves!
