Explore this carefully curated list of 10 beautiful libraries in the USA. Some of these libraries hold special volumes and are uniquely built. Visiting them is a free way to experience something new while also unleashing the BookWyrm in you! You can also get an inside look at new communities.
(Libraries are not ranked, they are just featured on a numbered list, all beautiful in their own way!)
Let’s get right into it!
1. Fisher Fine Arts Library – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This first library collects materials to support research in art, architecture, photography, etc. Part fortress and part cathedral, this brick and terracotta library is astonishingly beautiful.
Photo Credit: UPenn Facilities – University of Pennsylvania
2. Fleet Library Rhode Island School of Design – Providence, Rhode Island
An extensive collection of art and design books is located on the first two floors of the former Rhode Island Hospital Trust bank. Grand ceilings throughout the reading hall with stunning chandelier lighting.
Photo Credit: Digital Commons @ RISD – Rhode Island School of Design
3. Chicago Public Library (Chinatown Branch) – Chicago Illinois
With free admission, stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, and vibrant art this library is a must-see! Prided with having collections of the main local languages; English, Malay, Tamil, and Chinese.
Photo Credits: Chicago Public Library
4. George Peabody Library – Baltimore, Maryland
Black and white marble slab flooring, five tiers of black cast iron balconies, and gold scalloped columns containing the 300,000 books this library includes, among other jaw-dropping details put into this gorgeous library.
Photo Credits: Highsmith, Carol M./ Library of Congress
5. Main San Francisco Public Library – San Francisco, California
Massive library with 6 floors above ground and 1 below. Amazing spiral skylight which provides natural lighting for the books and us!
Photo Credits: U.S. Government Publishing Office
6. Prim Library at Sierra Nevada College – Incline Village, Nevada
Compared to others, beautiful library in the woods has a cozy cabin feel. It is open to the public and has plenty of natural light.
Photo Credits: Vance Fox/University of Nevada, Reno
7. Joe and Rika Mansueto Library – Chicago, Illinois
An undeniably unique study experience enclosed by a glass dome-shaped ceiling. Unlike any other library you’ve ever seen.
Photo Credits: ArchDaily/ Murphy Jahn
8. Cook Legal Research Library – Ann Arbor, Michigan
The reading hall has especially tall ceilings lined with chandeliers, and large tables line both sides of the room. The intricate details in the ceiling and windows create an enchanting look.
Photo Credits: Thomas Guignard
9. Iowa State Law and Library – Des Moines, Iowa
It is a must-see for book lovers with its grand bookshelves and spiral staircases. Victorian-style architecture floor-to-ceiling details. Undoubtedly, very impressive.
Photo Credits: Kelsey Kremer/The Des Moines Register
10. James B. Hunt Jr Library and North Carolina State University – Raleigh, North Carolina
Finally, an atrium filled with colorful seating and an amazing variety of books and media. Perfect quiet place to soak up the sunbeams while reading a novel!
Photo Credits: NCSU Libraries – NC State University