More Library Eye Candy - Part 2!

Some of the most beautiful Libraries in the world generate such inspiration while others are so timeless that they can only be appreciated for the beauty and history that they present as they are put on display for everyone to discover.  I've done a blog post before featuring some of my favorites and what I love about them.  So I thought I'd put together a new post with others I've saved for my own source of inspiration or viewing pleasure.  I hope you enjoy these as much as I do.

TRINITY COLLEGE LIBRARY - DUBLIN, IRELAND

While I've never been, Ireland is at the tippy top of my list of places to visit one day.  My family has Irish ties on both sides as well as on my husband's side and so it has always had a strong pull on my adventurous heart to see it.  So this Library draws me in for that reason for sure.  But it also draws me in because of the pleasant atmosphere it holds.  There is clearly so much history in this building. 

Established in the 16th century, this copyright Library holds numerous volumes and historical artifacts including the Brian Boru harp which is one of only three surviving Gaelic harps form the Medieval era.  The simply-stated monotone wood details gives it a rich feeling and lends itself to a more materials-focused space.  The arched ceilings contribute to the historic and timeless appeal as well.

STATE LIBRARY VICTORY - MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA

Established in the mid nineteenth century, the State Library Victoria is the oldest Library in Australia.  It has seen plenty of renovations and additions through the years with the dome being a large part of that.  At one point, the dome glass was even covered up by copper sheets to mitigate water issues.  

From a design perspective, this space feels extremely open and airy with very tall white walls and a dark floor acting as a visual anchor throughout the room.  The radial shape of the space with a circular central axis point allows for a large number of patrons to work and study without creating circulation issues.

PHILOLOGICAL LIBRARY OF THE FREIE UNIVERSITAT - BERLIN, GERMANY

Built by renowned architect Sir Norman Foster, this is a very unique Library in appearance. It was apparently built to resemble the shape of the human brain and is considered to be an academic Library.  It officially opened its doors in 2005.  I'll be honest with you, this particular image resembles more of a human eye shape to me, however, obviously that was not the intention.  But isn't it fun to look at!

With glass a-plenty this space built in Berlin Germany lets in plenty of sunlight. "Baptized as the Berlin Brain", it can be toured through a special company or you can learn more about it if you stop by the front desk and ask for the 45-minute audio tour given by the architect himself.

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF FRANCE - PARIS, FRANCE

This one does it like only Paris, France can!  Stunning architectural details with vaulted ceilings and plenty of glass and towering shelves for materials.  Established in the mid 15th century, this Library holds everything from historical collections and journals, to patents, maps, stamps and so much more.  The history on this building alone is so vast that I highly recommend that you do some research of your own if you find it of interest and read more about it.  

ROYAL PORTUGUESE READING ROOM - RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

This Library gives me all the feels!  Plentiful in ornate architectural elements, it manages to achieve this without interfering with the materials housed in this building.  The colors are rich and bold while the simple marble flooring is a simple base for the room.

Established in the early 19th century, this building holds over 350,000 items and was built by immigrants and refugees to encourage culture in the local community.  It was the first of this type of architecture in Brazil and has a large chandelier centrally located along with an iron skylight.  The architectural style is considered Neo-Manueline that was derived from 16th century late Gothic Portuguese architecture.

FINAL THOUGHTS

While we hope to build a modern-day Library to stand the test of time and make a visual impact on our communities, most are built today to function.  I personally feel that the Libraries of the past are an art form that is difficult to bring back given today's view of architecture.  Every now and then we see some epic structure, but most days we're doing good to get a building built within budget.  That wasn't always the case throughout history.  Once upon a time Libraries were not only built to house some of the most precious volumes, but also to become a part of history in itself.