The Most Beautiful Libraries in the United Kingdom
The dual attack of our increasingly digital lives and the policies of austerity has been mostly bad news for libraries, with many closing each year. If nothing else, this should make us thankful for the beautiful ones that remain in the UK (which happens to be the home of some of the most stunning in the world). Discover nine of the best with our guide to beautiful public and university libraries across the country.
1. The Codrington Library, Oxford
Library, University
Glasgow School of Art Library, Glasgow
A devastating fire ran through the library of the Glasgow School of Art in 2015. Although the Grade I listed building was mostly undamaged, its contents were almost completely gutted by the flames. This is a great shame, for the library represented one of the most singular visions in Art Nouveau design. Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed everything from the furniture to light fittings, creating an atmosphere and artistic triumph that has inspired some of Britain’s most successful artists, as alumni of the school.
Glasgow School of Art Library, 167 Renfrew St, Glasgow, Scotland +44 141 353 4500
2. The Bodleian, Oxford
Library, University, Building, School
3. Peckham Library, London
Building, Library
4. Signet Library, Edinburgh
Library
5. John Rylands Library, Manchester
Cathedral, Church, Library, University
6. The Maughan, London
Building, Library, University
7. Library of Birmingham
Library
8. Liverpool Central Library
Library
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