There are many beautiful libraries of the world that we wish to live in (permanently) and read to our heart’s content. With stunning architecture and an even more stunning collection of literary works, these libraries will enchant you with their magic. So if you wish to plan a trip around the world, here are The Bombay Circle Press’ recommendations of libraries that you should visit at least once.
Tama Art University Library Japan
A stunning piece of modern architecture, this library has a huge collection of works related to the humanities field, especially arts and design. It was inaugurated in 2007 and was envisioned as an open space for the students from different fields to come together. The architecture promotes a free flow of ideas with its open spaces and beautiful connection with the outdoors, and is filled with natural light during the day, owing to the huge glass windows. A serene calm will surely engulf you in its charm.
National Autonomous University Library of Mexico
The facade of this library is covered with beautiful mosaic tiles which depict the different phases of history and culture of the country. Today the library is home to over 1.5 million volumes, even including manuscripts that are centuries old. The library offers guided visits to tourists as well. The architecture of the library was specially designed to preserve old manuscripts and increase their shelf life longer. The reading room of the library has views of the gardens on either side of the building.
Central Library of Hong Kong
Largest library of Hong Kong, it is 12-storeys high and contains over 2.3 million items. Completely free of cost, it allows the tourist to sit in and read for hours without any membership card. It is also the depository for nine international organisations the UN, WTO, World Bank and many more. The library is closed on public holidays but open the whole week on the regular days. It also has digital infrastructure to support the readers and make their process easier.
National Library of India
The National Library of India, foremost among the libraries in India, is one of the four designated libraries entitled to receive under the Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act, 1954 a copy of every publication published anywhere in the country. The library is a permanent depository of all reading and printed materials produced in India, or written by any foreigner, wherever published and in whatever language. It is home to the largest collection of books in India, with over 2.5 million of books, magazines, newspapers and more.
These magical libraries are a world of their own and are one of the most important cultural aspects of the human race. Stay tuned at The Bombay Circle Press’ bulletin for more such interesting info.