The Prettiest Libraries in America According to TikTok: See What Makes These 5 Buildings So Stunning
Not everyone is a book lover, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t libraries around the country that aren’t worthy of a little attention! Travel website Islands decided to highlight this by putting together a list of the top 10 libraries in the United States that TikTok users seem to love the most. It doesn’t take long to see why so many locals and tourists can’t resist sharing their experiences in these gorgeous buildings. Below, take a look at the five prettiest libraries according to TikTok, perfect for exploring on your next trip or admiring from afar at home.
(Another trend on BookTook? Books with sprayed edges!)
1. Library of Congress in Washington D.C.
The library, founded in 1800, is comprised of three buildings on Capitol Hill. The oldest of the structures is The Thomas Jefferson Building, also known as the Main Library.
One of the most commonly admired spots is the Main Reading room, which is said to be inspired by the British Museum Library. This sprawling space not only offers incredible viewpoints, but continues to amaze with its impressive paintings, sculptures, and architectural design.
Catch a glimpse of the reading room in the video below:
One TikTok user (@mo_ais) was captivated by the beauty. “This is unbelievable. The artwork and stone work is stunning,” she wrote in a comment.
But the room is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the aesthetic structure. Other videos, like the one below, display how even a stroll through the library’s halls makes you feel like you’re on a European excursion.
Intricately carved columns, mosaic tiled floors, stained glass and hand-painted ceilings make the library quite the sight! It certainly is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
2. Stephen A Schwarzman Building in New York, New York
Part of the New York Public Library (NYPL) system, the Stephen A Schwarzman Building (located on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street) is most commonly referred to as the “main branch.” Though the four-story structure is often recognized by its iconic lion statues welcoming visitors on the street, the interior is equally memorable.
“The library of timeless beauty,” is how TikTok user @glamnarratives describes it in her video. She particularly focuses on the captivating ceilings, which could be quite a distraction for even the most dedicated reader or scholar!
Other visitors to the library have agreed with the sentiment. The most popular spot continues to be the Rose Main Reading Room, which measures 78 feet by 297 feet and features 52-foot-tall-ceilings, according to the NYPL.
See more of its features in the video below:
3. Boston Public Library in Boston, Massachusetts
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The Boston Public Library first opened in 1854 in a former-two room schoolhouse. It didn’t take long, however, for it to get an upgrade. The library relocated in 1854 to a newly built location on Boylston Street. Since then, renovations have made the library into a spectacular work of art all its own.
TikTok user @goingwithnicole highlights why it’s worth seeing in her video below. “This library is a must visit for architecture lovers and appreciators alike when traveling to Boston!” she shares in the caption.
It quickly becomes evident why this is considered such a beautiful spot. In another video, one can catch a glimpse of the elaborate marble staircases, chandeliers, a lush courtyard and picturesque arches.
4. Los Angeles Central Library in Los Angeles, California
Located in downtown Los Angeles, this stunning spot features two equally impressive buildings. The first is the 1926 structure (called the Goodhue Building), which was later joined by a 1993 addition. The library is considered a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument and is on the list of National Register of Historic Places.
It’s undoubtedly an attraction that will leave you in awe. “The Los Angeles Central Library is a stunning architectural gem in DTLA with a storied history,” says TikTok user @drewmtillman in the caption of his video.
He points out that it was designed in an Egyptian revival style. This comes through in everything from the library’s floor tiles to its iconic pyramid-shaped tower at the top of the building.
You can also see more about the library’s unique atrium in the following video. The carefully designed space features a more modern twist, such as the vibrant design on the painted ceiling and the eye-catchy chandeliers.
5. George Peabody Library in Baltimore, Maryland
This special collections library is part of Johns Hopkins University's Peabody Institute. Though the entire building (which opened in 1878) is not open to the public, non-students are still able to visit the ground floor.
A walk through the library’s doors will quickly reveal why it can take your breath away. The interior incorporates design elements such as Renaissance Revival and Greco-Roman.
The most well-known feature of the building is the Peabody Stack Room, which has five levels of cast-iron balconies. The 61-foot-tall room is also highlighted by a skylight that draws the eyes upward.
See it for yourself in the video below:
It likely comes as no surprise that this spot is a popular choice for hosting events! “Been to many a wedding here. Beautiful!” commented user @jacquelineromoser.
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