The Beautiful Kentucky Library That Looks Like Something From A Book Lover's Dream
By Sarah McCosham|Published October 26, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Hermione Granger said it best: “When in doubt, go to the library.” In the Bluegrass State, the Louisville Free Public Library is a place that would most certainly please Ms. Granger, as its gilded halls and breathtaking architecture look like something from a book lover’s dream. Not only is this Kentucky library one of the most beautiful libraries in the state, it’s also one of the most historic and inspiring.
Since its opening in 1908, the Louisville Free Public Library has been considered one of the most beautiful places in the city, and a shining example of Beaux-Arts architecture.
This Kentucky library is the kind of place that inspires from the minute you gaze upon its glorious facade, with its gothic windows and 13-foot Abraham Lincoln monolith standing tall outside the door. Once you've caught your breath, you'll ascend the stone steps and enter the library's hallowed halls, where more magic awaits.
Upon entry, you can't help but be awestruck by the ornate stained glass works, the barrel-vaulted ceiling, the white marble columns, and the two grand staircases affixed with striking bronze and iron railings.
The Louisville Free Public Library's Main Branch is the hub of this bustling system, the largest in the state. Inside, a collection of over 1,200,000 books awaits bibliophiles of all ages.
During the Great Flood of 1937, much of this library was damaged when the Ohio River rose 30 feet above flood stage and enveloped some 60% of the city. Another flood in 2009 destroyed some 50,000 books and damaged countless others. But throughout it all, this library has remained steadfast; these disasters becoming part of its own story.
And indeed, it's a story Kentuckians adore. Book lovers will be delighted by the sheer volume of books at this Kentucky library, which boasts lots of tables, sitting areas, and cozy little nooks for previewing your picks.
The library is a place of infinite possibilities. A place to indulge curiosity and inspire awe and wonder. A place where, if you have questions, you'll find answers...
Have you visited the Louisville Free Public Library before? What a wonderful feature in our state’s cap — and glorious refuge for book lovers.
This Kentucky library isn’t the only attraction in Louisville that’s straight out of Harry Potter. This beautiful building in Louisville, Kentucky, looks just like Hogwarts!
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