This Texas Library Was Just Named One Of The Best In The World And It's Not Hard To See Why
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 29, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When you’re deciding what to do for fun, libraries don’t often top the list. They serve their purpose, but usually don’t have anything special to write home about – all libraries except this one, that is. Time Magazine has included Austin Central Library in a collection of the world’s greatest places to visit this year. That’s a pretty incredible feat to achieve, and we definitely feel it belongs. Keep reading to find out what makes this building so special.
Boasting over 500,000 books, it's hard to believe the library just opened last year. The six-story building could easily be mistaken for a hotel - it even has its own parking garage!
Even if you think books are boring, you're bound to find something to occupy your time. With an art gallery, event spaces, rooftop butterfly garden, cafe, and cutting-edge technology like 3-D printers, it's much more than uptight librarians and musty pages.
Have a big test coming up or an important group project to work on? Settle into one of many cozy study rooms and feel right at home as you get to work.
There are even several reading porches overlooking both Shoal Creek and Lady Bird Lake. Few things in life are as calming as diving into a good book while surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature, and the library gives you the opportunity to do exactly that.
Many events, including book festivals dedicated to some of your all-time favorite reads, are held throughout the year. We can't imagine a more perfect location that makes everyone feel like a VIP!
Have you ever visited the Austin Central Library? Are there any other libraries or bookstores in Texas that have a “special something” setting them apart from the rest? Let us know!