The Most Beautiful Libraries Around The World

Waquar Habib

Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, Manhattan

A masterpiece in Beaux Arts, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is the main branch of the New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan. The Rose Main Reading Room is roughly the size of the two city blocks measuring 78 feet by 297 feet.

Don't miss: Two marble lion sculptures named "Patience" and "Fortitude."

Rose Main Reading Room | Shutterstock

Raza Library, Rampur

The Raza Library, Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, is a brilliant example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It was established by Nawab Faizullah Khan in 1774 and is now run by the central government.

Don't miss: The large collection of miniatures and artefacts.

Raza Library | Shutterstock

Library of Strahov Monastery, Prague

In Prague's Strahov Monastery Library, the Baroque Theological Hall, constructed from 1671 to 1675, stands as a prime example of Baroque design.

Don't miss: Incunabula representing the early days of book printing.

Baroque Theological Hall | Shutterstock

David Sassoon Library, Mumbai

In the heart of Mumbai, the David Sassoon Library is a 19th-century building. Built by architects J. Campbell and G. E. Gosling, the library is a paragon of Victorian Neogothic architecture.

Don't miss: Cultural and educational programmes, exhibitions, and events.

David Sassoon Library | Shutterstock

Hachioji Library, Tokyo

Tama Art University's Hachioji Library in Tokyo harmoniously merges brutalist architecture with 20th-century minimalism. Its open layout features concrete colonnades that offer arch-like structural strength.

Don't miss: An open space within the library where to sit, recline, or even sleep.

Hachioji Library | Shutterstock

State Central Library, Hyderabad

Earlier known as the Asafia Library, the State Central Library of Hyderabad is located on the banks of the Musi River in Afzalgunj. Its construction began in 1891 by the efforts of Syed Hussain Bilgrami. Prince Mir Osman Ali laid the foundation, and architect Aziz Ali built the structure.

Don't miss: Ancient manuscripts in Urdu, Persian, Telugu, and Arabic language.

State Central Library, Hyderabad | Wikimedia Commons

Wiblingen Monastery Library, Ulm

Nestled within a German monastery, the Wiblingen Monastery Library is a pragmatic Baroque fantasy. Crafted by architect Christian Wiedemann from 1744 to 1750, it showcases intricate Rococo design, lavish wood craftsmanship, and captivating frescoes.

Don't miss: Paintings by 18th-century Baroque painter, Franz Georg Hermann.

Wiblingen Monastery Library | Wikimedia Commons

Nehru Memorial Library, Delhi

Designed by the British architect Tor Russell, the Nehru Memorial Library, also called the Teen Murti Bhawan, is a Victorian Neoclassical architecture. The building served as the residence of Jawaharlal Nehru.

Don't miss: Countless photographs of freedom fighters, various political leaders, and newspaper cuttings.

Nehru Memorial Library | Wikimedia Commons

Library Of The Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escoria, Madrid

Founded by Phillip II, the Library of San Lorenzo de El Escorial exemplifies Renaissance architecture. The king's roles as a humanist and bibliophile inspired its creation. It now holds UNESCO World Heritage status.

Don't miss: Frescoes on the ceiling depicting scenes from classical history that ancients believe to be the seven arts.

Library of the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escoria | Wikimedia Commons

National Library of India, Kolkata

The National Library of India, the nation's second-largest, stands as a notable illustration of 19th-century Imperial British architecture envisioned by architect Lord Curzon.

Don't miss: A collection of 3,200 manuscripts and 86,000 maps.

National Library of India | Wikimedia Commons