We love public libraries; being surrounded by books, the intoxicating aroma of said books, and well, we’re just public library nerds, we guess, so as we venture out on our road trips this summer, we aren’t leaving them off of our itineraries! Today we’re looking at some of the coolest public libraries you can visit across the country.
Peterborough Public Library in Peterborough, New Hampshire
(image via: ann beha)
If you’re a book nerd AND history nerd, then you’ll appreciate visiting the oldest library in the world. In 1833 Rev. Abiel Abbot was approved for public funding to start a library that was free to everyone in town. Prior to this, bibliophiles would actually have to pay dues to borrow books. Abbot probably never thought that years down the road libraries would be such vital parts of our communities, but look at us now. We have a lot to thank Rev. Abiel Abbot for!
Arabian Library in Scottsdale, Arizona
(image via: arch daily)
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re in a desert, but like, in the air conditioning and among shelves of books? The Arabian Library in Scottsdale, Arizona can offer you that very specific experience as the architecture of this public library is inspired by the local landscape. And what better place to settle in with a book than a gorgeous courtyard that opens up to the sky?
Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library and Learning Center in Little Rock, Arkansas
(image via: architect magazine)
Kids deserve a place where they can be their creative selves, let their imaginations flow, and explore nature. And ya know what? Adults should try that too. If you find yourself near Little Rock, Arkansas, whether you have little humans with you or not, don’t hesitate to check out this cool space loaded with books, but also a performance space, a teaching kitchen, a greenhouse, a vegetable garden, and an arboretum.
DeFuniak Springs Library in DeFuniak Springs, Florida
(image via: cathy’s cycling capers)
Think library meets antique shop meets garden. And we don’t know about you, but those are three of our favorite things so whether we were initially planning on visiting DeFuniak Springs or not, we certainly are now because you don’t have to tell us twice to go relax with a book in a reading garden.
Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library in Denver, Colorado
(image via: studio trope)
If you love traveling to places that are full of diversity (and who doesn’t?) then Denver needs to be on your vacation bucket list. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library! Don’t worry, you can’t miss it because this library is not only filled on the inside with bright lights and colors, but it’s most notably colorful on the outside as well.