Literary Lovers Must Visit Powell's City of Books
For book lovers, there is nothing better than stepping into a place that's steeped in literature and literary history, where you walk through aisles with hundreds, or even thousands, of book spines staring at you. Here are 20 places that every book lover needs to visit.
1. The British Library
This library in London houses over 170 million items, including original manuscripts by Jane Austen, Shakespeare, and the Magna Carta. Yes, the Magna Carta. Visiting is a religious experience for book lovers and history enthusiasts, but truly anyone can enjoy spending an afternoon here.
2. Shakespeare and Company
This legendary bookstore in Paris has hosted some of the biggest names in the literati, including Hemingway. It's both a pilgrimage for book lovers to shop in and also a bohemian haven near the Seine. Every book lover in Paris needs to at least make a quick stop at Shakespeare and Company.
3. The Library of Congress
The world's largest library is home to more than 173 million items. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and you could spend a week combing through their rare book collection. Bibliophiles must soak in the literary history that's etched into the walls of the Library of Congress.
4. Livraria Lello
To many, this is the world's most beautiful bookstore. Located in Porto, Portugal, its design is neo-Gothic, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she lived in the area. The staircase looks as if it belongs in Hogwarts, and the vibe is a dream for book lovers.
5. El Ateneo Grand Splendid
This converted theater in Buenos Aires is a stunning bookstore with ornate balconies and stage lighting. Tour with a coffee and see where the orchestra once played, and browse books under the beauty of a dome.
6. Strand Bookstore
This New York City institution is famous and beloved for its 18 miles of books. An urban literary landmark since the 1920s, Strand is a must-visit for bookish people who love losing themselves among endless aisles and shelves, hoping to find a rare gem.
7. The Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe can be found in Oxford, England. Dating back to the early 17th century, this library is famous for its collection of ancient manuscripts. Visiting this place is a literary dream come true, and especially fun for fans of literary history.
8. Trinity College Library
Literary enthusiasts need to take in the magnificent Long Room and the Book of Kells at Trinity College Library. Entering feels like stepping into a fantasy novel that's steeped in Irish heritage.
9. Hay-on-Wye
Located in Wales and known as "the town of books", Hay-on-Wye is home to dozens of indie bookstores. It also boasts the Hay Literary Festival, making it a literary paradise for all book lovers.
10. The Morgan Library & Museum
This is J.P. Morgan's private book collection, which holds illuminated manuscripts, handwritten notes from Dickens, and many early prints. The decor makes you feel like you're stepping into a Victorian-era novel, and every shelf conveys history and literary grandeur.
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11. Powell's City of Books
The largest independent bookstore in the world can be found in Portland, Oregon, and it takes up a city block, if you can believe it. It boasts over a million volumes, making it a haven for those who love to be surrounded by books.
12. Admont Abbey Library
Admont Abbey is a baroque library that lets you browse titles under frescoed ceilings and among gilded shelves and glorious marble sculptures. It's more a literary tribute than a library.
13. Cook & Book
This whimsical bookstore and cafe in Brussels lets you browse in themed rooms. There's one for music, one for travel, and another dedicated to comics.
14. The Prague Strahov Monastery Library
This library in Prague offers ornate frescoes and centuries-old books. Its halls contain some of the oldest manuscripts in European history, and every corner is soaked in history and literary history alike.
15. Daunt Books
Daunt Books in London, England, is ideal for travel aficionados. It's located in an Edwardian building with brilliant skylights and balconies. Books are organized by country, making it the perfect place to wander and get lost in for hours.
16. The National Library of China
Asia's largest library has preserved countless ancient Chinese texts. Their collections go deep enough to include imperial records and calligraphy. Visiting here makes for a monumental experience for anyone interested in world literature and Chinese history.
17. Barter Books
When visiting Barter Books in Alnwick, England, you will enter a converted Victorian railway station and browse among roaring fires and model trains. It's a cozy and memorable experience. One fun fact is that this is where the famous "Keep Calm and Carry On" poster was rediscovered.
18. Seattle Central Library
The Seattle Central Library is a stunning architectural marvel designed by Rem Koolhaas. Its unique design makes enjoying their vast collection all the more special. This is one of the most inspiring modern libraries in the country, and everyone visiting Seattle should stop by, even if it's just for an hour.
19. Biblioteca Vasconcelos
Called the "megalibrary", this Mexico City literary staple has floating bookshelves and a contemporary design that makes you feel like you're travelling through a library of the future. It's also incredibly photogenic, so be sure to snap some selfies while you're there.
20. The Last Bookstore
This bookstore in Los Angeles is beloved for its book tunnels and art installations, which are made entirely of recycled books. It's a literary wonderland that lets you celebrate writing, books, and visual art.
