Bookworms and masters of the Dewey decimal system know not to judge anything by its cover, but when it comes to the most beautiful libraries around the world, we’re more than happy to appreciate the best of the best based on appearances alone. Well, not entirely—the extensive collections housed in these erudite institutions are nothing to overlook, even when compared to soaring shelves, vaulted ceilings, and ingenious designs.
From Los Angeles to Tokyo, these 26 libraries promise an unforgettable experience for all who appreciate scholarly style and immaculate craftsmanship. So whether you’re a literature lover or an architectural aficionado, you’ll want to add at least one of the world’s most beautiful libraries to your bucket list. (And if you generally nerd out on beauty and knowledge, be sure to add a museum or two to your itinerary as well.)
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
