This might be a weird question... but I'm a total bookworm and a beautiful library is a must-have on my ideal campus. What are the top 10 most beautiful college libraries out there?
Sure, libraries can often become a second home for book lovers or anyone needing a comfortable and quiet space to study. Here's a list of 10 universities known for having particularly impressive libraries:
1. University of Oxford, Bodleian Library: Dating from the Middle Ages, it's one of the oldest libraries in Europe and has a massive collection of more than 12 million items.
2. Trinity College, Dublin, Old Library: A historic library that not only houses the famous Book of Kells but has a visually stunning Long Room filled with marble busts of renowned philosophers and writers.
3. Yale University, Beinecke Rare Book Library: Noted for its unique architectural design, it houses an incredible collection of rare manuscripts, maps, and books.
4. University of Cambridge, University Library: This library contains a tower with more than 2 million books, and its design is something to marvel at.
5. UCLA, Powell Library: Known for its gorgeous Romanesque Revival architecture.
6. University of Coimbra, Joanina Library: This Baroque library in Portugal is full to the brim with antique, hard-to-find volumes and is known for its elegant interior filled with frescoes and gold leaf decorations.
7. Harvard University, Widener Library: It is Harvard's flagship library and has one of the most comprehensive collections of research materials in the U.S.
8. Princeton University, Firestone Library: Renowned for its Collegiate Gothic style and comprehensive research collection.
9. University of Washington, Suzzallo Library: The awe-inspiring Graduate Reading Room is reminiscent of a cathedral, earning it the nickname “The Harry Potter Room.”
10. University of Iowa, Law Library: Known as one of the most beautiful law libraries in the world, it houses a beautiful collection and has striking artwork throughout.
Just remember, while a beautiful library is genuinely spectacular, do make sure you're also considering other factors like academic programs, campus atmosphere, and financial considerations as you're deciding which colleges to apply to. Happy searching!
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