This Stunning Library In Missouri Is The Definition Of A Hidden Gem
By Liz Oliver|Published September 15, 2018
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
Libraries get a bad rap for being quiet, boring places where strict old ladies work. In reality, libraries are great places to read, study, explore, play, and celebrate. When St. Louis opened a public library in 1893, their collection had grown from 1,500 volumes to 90,000. By 1901 funds were being collected to build a newer, larger library and by 1912 it became a reality. Today, this stunning library is the definition of a hidden gem.
Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis is the Central Branch of the St. Louis Public Library. The library opened in 1912 and is still in operation today. It's a gorgeous building with tons to see and do!
The library's great hall is awe-inspiring. You'll have no problem buckling down to study in this stunning setting. The great hall is so beautiful that it's often used for private parties and spectacular events.
Throughout the library you'll see beautiful examples of the Italian Resonance. There are replicas of features from the Pantheon, Vatican, and Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library.
Many people visit the Central Branch to take an architectural tour. Regularly scheduled, Docent-led tours are available for individuals and groups under 10 people. Tours are available on Mondays at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., then on Saturdays at 11 a.m, Noon, and 1 p.m.
Another surprising aspect of the Central Branch are the modern updates. Completed in 2012, a $70 million dollar renovation was completed and unveiled to the public.
Colorful and bold pieces of art adorn the modern spaces. This amazing room is the young adult library that includes games, fun seating, and inspiring decor.
There are several serene spots to just sit and enjoy a good book. After diving into the volumes of text, take advantage of the other cultural activity areas in the library.
You could easily spend all day inside this beautiful library and still not enjoy all it has to offer. Visit the library on weekdays from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., on weekends from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and on Sundays (first floor only) from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.
Visit the Central Branch at 1301 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit the St. Louis Public Library's Facebook page here.
Have you visited the Central Branch of the St. Louis Public Library? Did you go to browse the shelves,attend an event, or take the architecture tour? Tell us about it in the comments below.
