The 12 Most Beautiful Libraries in the U.S.
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If you’re traveling solo , or with a group of book lovers, consider adding a stop at a library to your next travel destination. What’s not to love about popping into a library? You can check out the latest books on the stacks, and admire the beautiful buildings that the libraries are housed in.
But of course, libraries aren’t just for book lovers. Many of them also serve as museums, galleries, places where you can learn new skills like cooking or coding, and many of them are also beautiful works of art themselves.
Libraries are beautiful for a whole host of reasons—while some are visually stunning because they are so modern and technologically advanced, others are seemingly ancient and filled with history, wowing visitors who are mesmerized by the architecture and details.
Read on to discover the most awe-inspiring libraries the U.S. has to offer.
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The Best Libraries in the U.S.
1. Los Angeles Central Library
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The city of Los Angeles is well-known and well-visited because of its film industry, but it’s also quite a popular literary city, filled with many book lovers who are patrons of the city’s main public library, the Los Angeles Central Library . The library building, located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, is designed in the Art Deco style, and stands out among many of the neighborhood’s more modern skyscrapers.
The building’s exteriors are a marvel of architecture, but the interior of the library is also filled with works of art, including four major murals by Dean Cornwell which display the history of California.
“Its real stand-out attraction is the artwork, with painted walls and ceilings, you won’t have time to look at any books when you’re staring at the fascinating works around you,” says Jim Campbell , the CEO and founder of travel website Honeymoon Goals .
2. Providence Athenaeum
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The Providence Athenaeum may be named after Athena, the goddess of war and reason, but upon designing the building, architect William Strickland may have been more influenced by the gods of beauty, as the Rhode Island library is one of the country’s most stunning. The library, one of Edgar Allen Poe’s former haunts, is an independent, member-supported subscription library, and the building that it’s housed in was constructed in 1836. The interiors are a book-lovers dream, and the library itself is also filled with interesting artifacts.
“The library has interesting statues and an exceptional rare books collection, including a study of Egypt that Napoleon commissioned and an original copy of John Audubon’s ‘Birds of America,’” says Steve Prohaska , a travel expert and the founder of See the Best Places . “A special exhibit here also contains some of the belongings, photos, and signed letters of Walt Whitman.”
Visitors can take self-guided tours of the museum with the help of their brochure and information displays.
3. Boston Public Library
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Boston is one of the most historic cities in the country, so it makes sense that the city’s public library would also be one of the country’s oldest and most beloved. Serving more than four million patrons a year, the Boston Public Library is also one of the largest public libraries in the country.
The Boston library system was first founded in 1848, but its main branch, located in the city’s Copley Square opened in 1895. The building was designed in a Beaux-Arts architectural style, and its Bates Hall, one of the most striking areas of the library, features a tall, coffered ceiling that’s reminiscent of Renaissance buildings.
“The McKim building is the historic part of the library, first founded in 1848,” says Amanda Ghanbarpour , a travel writer at My Vintage Map . “The architecture in this part of the library is stunning, with its ornate ceilings, staircase, paintings and statues. But the best part is the Bates Reading Room, with its vaulted ceiling and rows of tables with reading lamps, surrounded by shelves of books on all sides. It is truly a work of art.”
4. Library of Congress
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Perhaps the most well-known of all of the country’s libraries, the Library of Congress is a research library that is used by members of the U.S. Congress, and it’s also the de facto national library of the United States.
The library, housed on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, established in 1800. Its oldest building, the Thomas Jefferson Building , which was built in the late 19th century, is arguably its most visually-striking. Its beautiful, open Great Hall is home to a mosaic of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom.
The library is open for visitors Tuesday through Saturday, but you must reserve a timed-entry pass online before entering. Visitors can stop by one of the library’s reading rooms to do research, although only high-ranking government officials and library employees may check out materials, or attend one of the library’s many events , like concerts or historical lectures.
5. Armstrong-Browning Library
Photo: Courtesy of Armstrong Browning Library
Many libraries pride themselves on the large number of authors whose works are housed within their walls. The Armstrong-Browning Library , on the campus of Baylor University in Waco, Texas, is a little different. It’s home to the largest collections of works by English Victorian-era poets Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning .
As the University’s collection of the Browning’s work continued to grow, the school needed a dedicated space for it, building the Armstrong-Browning Library in the mid-20th century. In addition to the literary works found in the library, it’s also home to the largest collection of secular stained glass in the world, so it’s a dream for art lovers as well.
“The Armstrong-Browning Library is without a doubt one of the most stunning libraries in the United States,” says Jenny Ly , the founder of Go Wanderly . “European influences are evident in the design. But it’s the finer points—stained-glass representations of Robert and Elizabeth’s poems, literary interpretations of their words, and quotes painted on the walls—that transform a chaotic collection of thoughts into a carefully manicured paradise for book lovers.”
As well as allowing visitors to tour the library and museum, the beautiful building is also popular as a wedding venue.
6. Nashville Public Library
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The Nashville Public Library is a resource for anyone interested in the Music City’s history, but the building that it’s housed in, located in the city’s downtown, is also an impressive, historic building in its own right.
The library building was first constructed in 1901, and has such stunning architecture that you might forget that you’re in there looking for books and not just to admire the building itself.
“Robert A.M. Stern Architects of New York designed the three-story, 300 thousand square foot building in a modern classical style with columns and pillars,” says Jill Kilgore , a public relations media manager at the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development . “Inside is a grand staircase in the lobby, skylights and large windows with a view of the State Capitol, and original artwork commissioned especially for the library.”
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7. Hearst Castle Library
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It only makes sense that the library of one of the most beautiful mansions in the country , the Hearst Castle , would also contain one of the most beautiful libraries as well. The gigantic home was built in the early 20th century for newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, and its massive library wasn’t just for books, although it holds plenty of those. It also houses art like antique Greek vases, and a 16th century Spanish ceiling.
“The Hearst Castle Library, on the central coast of California, is one of the most gorgeous libraries in the country,” says Larry Snider , VP of Operations of Casago Vacation Rentals . “Built to reflect the European styles of architecture admired by Hearst, it holds approximately 4,000 books as well as his collection of medieval texts, paintings, statues, and textiles.”
8. Louisville Free Public Library
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The Louisville Free Public Library looks more like a building at a private university than a free, public library in the center of Kentucky’s largest city. The main branch was constructed in 1906 by the New York architectural film Pilcher and Tachau, which also designed buildings at private universities, so it makes sense that the library’s exteriors look so refined.
“The Louisville Free Public Library Main Branch is considered one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in Kentucky, complete with stained glass, a barrel-vaulted ceiling, white marble columns and two staircases with bronze and iron railings,” says Jordan Skora , a marketing communications manager at Louisville Tourism . “On the property stands a 13-foot bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln, Kentucky’s only native U.S. President.”
Although the library is a beloved historic institution in the city, it wasn’t always certain that the building would stand the test of time, because it was severely damaged during a flood in 1937.
“During the great 1937 flood, much of the library was damaged as the Ohio River rose 30 feet above flood stage, covering 60 percent of the city,” Skora says. “Nonetheless, the library prevailed, becoming the first U.S. library with its own FM radio station in 1950.”
9. Morgan Library and Museum
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When you picture a beautiful library, you’re probably imagining the Morgan Library and Museum , a research library and museum in Manhattan. While the small library’s name might not ring a bell, it’s safe to say that one of its owner’s, J.P. Morgan’s, might. The library is a collection of the financier and investment banker’s private library, which contained manuscripts books, prints, and drawings.
“The Morgan Library and Museum is one of the most gorgeous libraries in the United States,” says Nick Mueller , director of operations at Hawaiianislands.com . “Financier JP Morgan possessed a comprehensive collection of art, from rare books and prints to ancient artifacts. In 1924, his son donated the library to the public and it’s been open ever since. The structure was built between 1902 and 1906 and occupies half a city block.”
The library stands out for its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, lined with aged manuscripts and books, and its richly decorated interiors, including its muraled ceilings and dramatic Rotunda room with a domed ceiling.
10. Suzzallo and Allen Libraries
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You wouldn’t expect the Suzzallo and Allen Libraries , the main libraries for the University of Washington in Seattle, to only have been constructed in the past 100 years. The library looks as if it’s been around for several centuries, and instead of belonging at an urban college campus, it should be in a castle in the countryside somewhere. It’s a beautiful building that reflects the modern needs of the college campus that it serves.
“Seattle has a library that’s known as the Harry Potter library,” says Sarah Simon , a travel blogger at Mukikapup’s Travels . “The Suzzallo and Allen Libraries are in the University of Washington’s campus and are considered the ‘soul’ of the school. The architecture is in the Collegiate Gothic style and includes a batwing vaulted ceiling, outdoor facade with buttresses and statues, and coats-of-arms from around the globe. There are also art installations, one of the world’s biggest books, hand-painted globes and stained glass to see.”
In addition to students doing research, visitors are welcome to tour the libraries Sunday through Friday.
11. Kansas City Public Library
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Libraries are beloved institutions for the books and resources that they have inside of their walls. But the Kansas City Public Library is a treasured part of the city, and one of the most beautiful libraries in the country, for the books that they have outside of the library.
The central branch of the city’s public library, which formerly housed the First National Bank, has a facade that’s designed to look like a gigantic bookshelf, designed with 25 foot by 9 foot book spines showing titles of classic novels like Charlotte’s Web and To Kill a Mockingbird .
“Its parking garage, which is designed like an enormous bookshelf, is one of the major attractions,” says Martin Betch , the cofounder of travel website Hi-van .
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12. Parkway Central Library
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The main branch of Philadelphia’s public library system is the Parkway Central Library . It was opened in 1927, and serves as the largest branch of the library system’s 54 branches. It’s also, arguably, the most beautiful. The building that the library is housed in is seven stories, with four of them open to the public.
“The library is so stunning that many choose it as a wedding venue,” says Melanie Musson , a travel expert with Clearsurance . “But, despite its grandeur, the intricate architectural details give an intimate feel to the space. So it’s ideal for both large and small gatherings.”
But weddings and other elaborate affairs aren’t the only reason that people visit the library. In addition to checking out books, movies and other items, the library offers a series of opportunities to learn, including cooking lessons.
“One of the unique offerings of this library is that they have a full commercial kitchen on the fourth floor,” Musson says. “It was designed and used as an educational hub for the culinary arts.”
The 10 Best Audiobooks for Your Next Road Trip
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Packing up the car and heading out on a road trip is a rite of passage. Many of us remember our first road trip as a kid, when we loaded up our suitcases to venture out toward a new destination. Maybe you also hit the road with friends after college, or have taken your kids on a road trip of their own, seeing the sites or exploring different national parks . But if you’re spending hours in the car—no matter who you’re with—you need something to pass the time. Music and podcast episodes can only cover so many miles, which is why you might be in the market for an audiobook.
According to Hayley Yager , bookstagrammer and blogger of Backpacking Bookworm , there are a few key factors that go into selecting the right audiobook for a road trip. To maximize your listening experience, she recommends looking for “engaging and authentic narrators,” who will keep your attention. Second, consider the genres or types of books you’re most interested in. Podcast-lovers might prefer a non-fiction pick, and if you’ve always wanted to learn about some historical or contemporary figure, a biography or memoir could be a great option. Fiction is also a great option, and you’ll find a plethora of different stories that you can immerse yourself in on a long drive.
If you’re having trouble making the right call, travel experts and book bloggers have recommended some of their top audiobook choices, which you can either purchase or borrow from your local library. Read on to find out what you should be listening to while on the road.
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Audible Studios
Anything by renowned nonfiction author Bill Bryson is worth a read or a listen. He writes about complex concepts—including the intricacies of the human body and the history of the universe—but does so in an accessible, often comical way. Of Bryson’s many worthy reads, Anthony Presti , travel writer of ValueQuack, recommends The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America .
“Follow Bill on his cross-country road trip in the United States. From the backwoods of Kentucky to the badlands of South Dakota, Bryson covers it all in this hilarious account of his journey,” Presti says.
Bryson travels across 38 states in total over the course of the travelogue, as he searches for the perfect small American town—and you’ll be waiting to see if he finds it. “If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud book to listen to on your road trip, this is the one for you,” Presti says. “It is one of the funniest books you’ll ever read, whether at home or on the road.”
Random House Audio
If you love a good modern mystery, The Flight Attendant is a solid choice for your next road trip. Full of suspense, this story follows Cassie, a binge drinker who finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation. It’s also been turned into a popular show on HBO Max, so you can engage in the age-old debate of book versus TV series when you’re done listening.
“Why not infuse a little ‘travel talk’ into your travels? With the release of the new HBO show based on this novel, I wanted to give the book a try before watching it,” Bryan Mullennix , founder of the travel website Feeling Vegas, explains. “It’s a suspenseful novel and makes for a good road trip audiobook because of how it is written and also the fact that it kind of relates to travel.”
This audiobook has three narrators, meaning you’ll hear different voices for different characters in this chilling and thrilling read. Looking for something even darker? You might want to opt for Yager’s thriller pick, The Night Swim by Megan Goldin .
Macmillan Audio
If you just want to be transported to another world, let TJ Klune take you there by listening to Under T he Whispering Door . Klune has quickly become a mainstay in the fantasy genre, often featuring LGBTQ+ characters. Under The Whispering Door also adds a splash of romance, humor, and some more intense themes of grief and loss.
John Hubbard , founder and CEO of the outdoor blog Urban Dare, recommends Under The Whispering Door if you want something that will truly keep your attention. “The audiobook gives you all types of feeling with every character’s unique and suitable voice,” he explains, adding that Kirt Graves , a well known audiobook reader and audio producer, narrates. “It provides a great message from life and love to death with its lovable characters.”
Hubbard recommends this for a long drive, “as it will take some time to understand the deep questions Klune’s tale poses throughout.” The audiobook has a listening length of 14 hours and 54 minutes, so it’ll get you through a good stretch of your trip. “Some listeners might find the audiobook a bit slow at the start,” he notes. “It is better to listen at 1.5 speed until you begin to understand the plot of the story.”
Random House Audio
If you’re choosing a memoir for a long-haul drive, Yager recommends selecting one that is recorded by the author. “In my experience, stories are brought more to life when read by the person who knows the book better than anyone,” she tells Best Life , suggesting Becoming by Michelle Obama as a notable choice.
The former First Lady narrates her memoir, discussing her childhood all the way through her time in the White House and after. You’ll feel connected to Obama when listening to her tell her story, and if you needed any more convincing, she won the 2020 Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album for her audio edition of the book.
If you’ve already checked Becoming off of your reading list—it was, after all, the best-selling book of 2018—Presti also recommends Barack Obama’s 2020 memoir A Promised Land . “It chronicles his upbringing, his time in office, and the challenges he faced throughout his presidency,” he says. “It’s an inspiring story that will leave you feeling hopeful and motivated—perfect for a road trip where anything can happen.”
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Pottermore Publishing
One of the most beloved series of all time centers on a young wizard named Harry Potter. The stories have captivated young and old readers alike since Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was first published in 1997. Presti recommends this audiobook for your next trip on the open road, especially if you’ve got your kids in tow.
“If you’re looking for a book the whole family can enjoy on your road trip, look no further than Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ,” he explains. “With its magic, adventure, and suspense, this book is sure to keep everyone entertained on a long car ride.”
As The Sorcerer’s Stone is the first installment in the seven-part series, you might also want to bring Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets along as well, just in case the kids (or you) can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Macmillan Audio
While you can’t watch a rom-com while you’re driving, you can certainly listen to one. Yager recommends The Switch , which is set in the U.K. and features a plot line that might remind you a little of the movie The Holiday . The story focuses on a newly-single grandmother looking for love in the rural town of Yorkshire and her granddaughter, who has become exhausted by life in London. The two decide to switch places, and drama, romance, and comedy ensue.
The audiobook is read by two English actors, Daisy Edgar-Jones , of Normal People and Where the Crawdads Sing , and Alison Steadman , award-winning stage, film, and television star.
“This is an easy and light listen with two celebrity narrators, which evokes familiarity,” Yager says. “The chapters are the perfect length, enabling you to get invested in one storyline before moving on to the next when the narrators switch.”
You can listen to this 10-hour audiobook on a longer drive, but Yager notes that you can also “dip in and out for shorter trips.”
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Random House Audio
Some stories are classics for a reason, and even if you haven’t picked up a copy of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy , odds are you’ve heard of it. First published in 1979, it was adapted from author Douglas Adams’ radio series and follows the journey of the only man to survive after earth is destroyed.
“Full of laughs, science fiction, and awesome ’70s and ’80s references, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is the perfect audiobook for a road trip,” Tim White , CEO and founder of the travel site MilePro, says. This pick is more “lighthearted,” he adds, making it a good choice for those who don’t want an audiobook that’s too intense.
The book is just under six hours long, White points out, making it optimal for shorter journeys. It’s also narrated by English actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry , so you might recognize a familiar voice.
Harlequin Audio
Another one of Yager’s fiction picks is The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman , which has all the necessary components of a family comedy—think Little Miss Sunshine with a twist.
“This is the perfect road trip listen as the book itself revolves around a family taking a detour-heavy road trip up to Edinburgh so 12-year-old Norman can perform at the Fringe,” she says.
For those unfamiliar with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, it’s the largest arts festival in the world, dating back to 1947. In this contemporary fiction novel, young Norman is hoping to take his comedy act to center stage at the event. “It’s an absolute rollercoaster of one hilarious feat after another, yet still manages to retain every ounce of authenticity,” Yager says. “It’s a feel-good book that anyone can enjoy, making it perfect for a long road trip.”
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Hachette Audio
For those who want an audiobook that is chock-full of different stories, check out David Sedaris’ When You Are Engulfed in Flames .
“If you’re looking for a more introspective, thought-provoking read, When You Are Engulfed in Flames is the book for you,” Presti tells Best Life .
Sedaris narrates the audiobook himself, and you’re sure to be entertained by his wit as he covers topics that range from ridiculous to deeply insightful. “It’s a hilarious and poignant look at the human condition that will have you thinking about it long after you’ve finished reading,” Presti says. “Follow as David travels the world and tries to make sense of it all.”
Random House Audio
Ernest Cline’s fantastic 2011 novel Ready Player One is a must-read—or listen, in this case—for anyone interested in gaming, virtual reality, or just science fiction in general.
“If you’re looking for a lighthearted, fun book to keep you entertained on a road trip, look no further than Ready Player One ,” Presti says. “This science fiction novel follows the story of Wade Watts, a teenager who finds himself thrust into a virtual world in search of an Easter egg that will grant its finder ultimate power and control over the world. Along the way, he makes allies and enemies as he fights to be the first to find the egg.”
The novel has also been adapted into a film directed by Steven Spielberg , but the book has significant differences. S0, even if you’ve seen the movie, you should still give the book a go. “It will have you laughing, crying, and cheering—the perfect way to pass the time on a long car ride,” Presti says.
