Global Libraries Every Book Lovers Must Visit

Libraries are a book lover’s ultimate paradise, where every corner whispers stories waiting to be discovered.

These book-filled sanctuaries are brimming with charm, drawing in word worshippers the moment they step through the door. The historic gems are world-class treasures, offering a remarkable journey into the past. Meanwhile, the modern masterpieces, with their sleek designs, provide a glimpse into the future of the library world.

Ready for an adventure? Here’s our #RadarList of must-visit libraries around the globe, perfect for every bibliophile eager to satisfy their inner reading devotee.

– Featured image credit: Michael D Beckwith on Unsplash – 

Photo by Diego Allen on Unsplash

Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

One of our absolute favorite library visits from our travels. Founded in 1837, the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura in downtown Rio de Janeiro is a captivating gem. Step through its doors and be transported by its awe-inspiring Portuguese Gothic beauty. With bookshelves teeming with over 350,000 ancient marvels, complemented by a majestic stained glass ceiling and chandelier, this is a must-visit gem to add to your Rio itinerary.

Photo by Girl with red hat on Unsplash

Biblioteca Vasconcelos

Biblioteca Vasconcelos, also known as the “Megabiblioteca,” exudes a spellbinding fusion of sci-fi intrigue and vintage allure. Its labyrinth of seemingly floating shelves, paired with a suspended whale skeleton art installation by Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco, creates an otherworldly ambiance that invites exploration.

Photo by Cyril Cazal on Unsplash

Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF/The National Library of France)

A sanctuary of knowledge and history, the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) in Paris boasts over 40 million literary gems beneath its breathtakingly designed wings.

Photo by Michaela Murphy on Unsplash

Library of Trinity College Dublin

A wellspring of ancient history, the Library of Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592, stands as one of the world’s most historic and largest libraries. Its renowned “Long Room,” with its majestic barrel vault and bookshelves stretching 65 meters, cradles over 200,000 of the library’s oldest and most cherished books.

Photo by MakoMakt on Unsplash

Starfield Library

While you’re in Seoul, South Korea, indulging your K-drama obsession, don’t forget to carve out some time for Starfield Library at Starfield COEX Mall. With its towering 13-meter-high bookshelves brimming with literary treasures, a simple stroll here is enough to spark your imagination and transport you to the future of libraries

Photo by Michael D Beckwith on Unsplash

The Lit & Phil Library

With 170,000 books and the North of England’s most extensive music collection, The Lit & Phil Library is nothing short of a haven for bibliophiles and musicians alike. Founded in 1793, this beloved Newcastle upon Tyne library has long been a garden of wonder, a place where curious minds can wander through worlds of words and revel in the magic of melody.