International Literacy Day is celebrated worldwide on September 8. The day shines a spotlight on the importance of making literacy accessible for all. It’s also an opportunity to inspire students, empower educators, and share our love for reading.
To celebrate the beauty of books, we’re highlighting reviews and photos Local Guides like you have shared of amazing libraries around the world.
1. Public Library Stuttgart in Stuttgart, Germany
Local Guides say: “From first impression it looked like a bit boring from the outside. I could not have been more wrong. The design throughout the building is high-tech and visitor friendly. I could spend hours here. Very clearly designed for patrons, community members, and visitors alike. Even games and artworks can be lent out! The children’s area is very family friendly.” -Local Guide Sarah-Rose Wentling
2. Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., United States
Local Guides say: “This is heaven for book lovers! Seeing Jefferson’s personal collection of books is a unique experience. The art work on the ceilings is breathtaking and the quotes written on the walls are inspiring. Mosaic work in the walls, floors, and ceilings is superb. A must see!” -Local Guide Samantha deManbey
3. The Baroque Library at The Clementinum in Prague, Czech Republic
Local Guides say: “Definitely worth the time, money and the exhaustion of climbing up the steps. The baroque library is one of the most breathtaking views ever even if you have to see it from a distance.” -Local Guide Nischala Raju
4. The National Library of China in Beijing, China
Local Guides say: “If you are traveling to Beijing, China, it is a place you want to visit. The National Library of China is the first library in Asia and the third largest in the world. This library has 26 million collections!” -Local Guide 네이버블로거_쭈니아빠
5. State Central Library in Karnataka, India
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**Local Guides say: “With its instantly recognisable bright brick red walls and its central location within the lush green of Cubbon Park, this is one of the city’s biggest cultural sites and landmarks. The biggest library in the State, its shelves are packed with everything from periodical publications to books in braille, so if it’s knowledge you seek, you’ve come to the right place. With a lifeline of over a 100 years, the library’s brick red walls have seen a century of growth and change in the city and have their own story to tell, apart from the many in their books, that is.” -Local Guide Kausik Roy
6. Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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**Local Guides say: “Wow wow wow wow! One of the best places that I’ve ever visited and also off of the tourist map so expect the place to yourself! Such a regal and beautiful library with stunning architecture and walls lined with the most elegant leather bound books. Make sure you make a stop here.” -Local Guide David M
7. Biblioteca Vasconcelos in Mexico City, Mexico
Local Guides say: “Nicknamed the ‘megalibrary’ by the Mexican press, this giant library takes up a whopping 409,000 square feet, making it large enough to dwarf the painted gray whale skeleton displayed inside the main hallway. Outside of the library is an impressive botanical garden that protects the building from the loud city streets, providing a moat for this castle of knowledge. Inside, over 500,000 books are displayed on glass shelves hanging from the five stories of the building. The end result is as striking as it is stunning.” -Local Guide Joao Cesar Escossia
Have you written a great review about a library you loved? Or posted a photo of it on Google Maps? Share a link to it in the comments below.
