15 of the Most Amazing College Libraries in the US

Key Takeaway: A college library might not seem like the most exciting place at first glance—just a spot to cram for exams, right? From high-tech modern spaces to cathedral-style, stained glass charm, these 15 college libraries might just make you actually want to study:

• Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, University of Chicago
• James B. Hunt Library, North Carolina State University
• Bapst Library, Boston College
• Cook Legal Research Library, University of Michigan
• Suzzallo Library, University of Washington
• Linderman Library, Lehigh University
• George Peabody Library, Johns Hopkins University
• Firestone Library, Princeton University
• Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University
• Powell Library, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
• Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, Harvard University
• Uris Library, Cornell University
• The Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia
• Fisher Fine Arts Library, University of Pennsylvania
• The Geisel Library, University of California-San Diego (UCSD)

15 Amazing College Libraries

There’s no doubt that you are going to spend a lot of time studying in college, but let’s face it—you won’t always want to study in your dorm. Luckily, college libraries aren’t all dim, dusty, and eerily silent like the ones you see in movies. Some are so cool that—dare we say it—they might actually make you excited to study. Whether you’re into high-tech, modern spaces or cathedral-style reading rooms, we’ve rounded up the 15 best college libraries in the US for you to check out:

1. Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, University of Chicago

Michael Barera via Wikimedia Commons

The Joe and Rika Mansueto Library opened in 2011 and features a massive glass dome above ground (“The Bubble”) that seats 180 students. It also has a five-story underground book-storage facility. And one of the best parts? There’s a robot that can retrieve any book you’re looking for in just under three minutes—forget the endless searching!

2. James B. Hunt Library, North Carolina State University

Seannator, Wikimedia Commons

If you like cutting-edge technology and modern spaces, then you’ll love the James B. Hunt Library. Before you even step foot into this building, you can’t help but notice the incredible architectural structure, designed by the world-renowned firm Snøhetta. Not only has it won architectural awards, but it’s also won interior design awards. Once inside, you’ll notice just how high-tech and spacious it is. There are plenty of modern study spaces, unique chairs, study pods, and collaborative rooms for group projects. This state of the art science library even features a robotic book retrieval system that can access up to 2 million volumes, as well as a 3-D printer that many students really enjoy being able to make use of.

3. Bapst Library, Boston College

Harvey D. Egan, Wikimedia Commons

Ever dreamed of studying at Hogwarts? Bapst Library offers a pretty close experience. This library opened its doors in 1924 and is known for its stunning architecture. It features stained glass windows throughout and is often compared to a cathedral. Although officially an art library, Bapst is open to all Boston College students, offering over 400 individual study spaces. It also houses over 50,000 volumes on art, architecture, museum studies, and photography.

4. Cook Legal Research Library, University of Michigan

Andrew Horne, Wikimedia Commons

Interested in studying law? Then the Cook Legal Research Library might rank high on your list of college libraries. This gothic-inspired building opened in 1931 and was originally built to hold around 350,000 volumes. However, four floors were later added on to accommodate the growing collection of books and extensive historic legal documents.

5. Suzzallo Library, University of Washington

Palash Biswas, Flickr

The Suzzallo Library took nearly 27 years to build and features one of the most elaborate cathedral-style reading rooms. At one point in time, this room was ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Throughout this library, you’ll find beautiful bookcases and hand-carved moldings made from Washington’s native wood, including Douglas fir, scrub oak, dogwood, mountain ash, pear, apple, and cherry. There is over 350,000 square feet of study space, along with two million print volumes, and professional staff on-site to help with research or projects.

6. Linderman Library, Lehigh University

Jospeh Gisante, Wikimedia Commons

The Linderman Library opened its doors in 1878—thanks to a generous donation from Asa Parker—and is one of the oldest university libraries in the nation. Although it was renovated again in 2005, Linderman still holds its original charm. Many students love studying in Linderman’s central rotunda, lit with a stained-glass skylight (the original one) in the shape of a mandala. It holds over 40,000 volumes of printed books and a large collection of rare materials and manuscripts.

7. George Peabody Library, Johns Hopkins University

Matthew Petroff Wikimedia Commons

Get your camera ready because this library is a showstopper. Dedicated in 1890, Baltimore philanthropist George Peabody funded the Peabody Library. While part of the Johns Hopkins’ library system, the Peabody Library is public and also open to the people of Baltimore.

One of the most stunning spaces to visit is the main reading room, which consists of five levels of ornamental cast-iron balconies. So beautiful in fact, that it’s become a venue for weddings, events, and even movies! The library now holds over 300,000 volumes of mostly 19th-century literature, including books on archaeology, British and American history, English and American literature, and Greek and Latin classics.

8. Firestone Library, Princeton University

Kah-Wai Lin, Flickr

Firestone Library first opened in 1948 and has been renovated twice, most recently in 1988. It’s considered one of the most iconic libraries since it was the first American university library constructed after World War II. It holds a vast collection of rare books and special items, including a Gutenberg Bible and several historical documents. The library is one of the largest open-stack libraries in existence, with more than 70 miles of bookshelves. Students love the spacious study areas, natural light, and research options.

9. Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University

Lauren Manning, Flickr

The Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library was a gift from three of Yale’s alumni and their families in the early 1900s. They hoped it would serve as a place for learning and inspiration. Today, it continues to be just that for both students and the public, housing the most extensive collection of rare books and documents in the world. The real beauty is right when you step foot into the library—you’ll be amazed at the glass tower of books that rises six stories throughout the building.

10. Powell Library, UCLA

Destitute via Wikimedia Commons

Powell Library opened in 1929 and is the main undergraduate library at UCLA. It’s open 24 hours a day for students and there are plenty of study spaces to fit everyone’s needs—although the main reading room is a student favorite. It has large tables, warm lighting, and high ceilings with historic charm.

And although Powell may have the classic library aesthetic, it’s also commonly referred to as “Club Powell” because it’s louder than most other libraries. This is in part because there’s a room that’s open 24/7 starting in the third week. During finals week students can join in the de-stressor programs at the library with snacks, therapy dogs, and origami stations.

11. Widener Library, Harvard University

Widener Library isn’t just another library on campus—it’s the library. It’s the largest of Harvard’s libraries and stands out for many reasons. A huge perk of Widener is that it offers research consultations, so if you need help with a project or paper, you have quick, onsite help. This library also houses 3.5 million books—which might sound treacherous when you think about the one book you need to find. Not to worry though, there’s actually a system that allows you to request not only the book you need, but the exact pages as well. When they’re ready, a librarian will send them right to your email.

12. Uris Library, Cornell University

Flickr user Barbara Friedman

Uris Library opened in 1891 and is the university’s oldest library building. In fact, it was actually designed by one of Cornell’s first architecture students. Inside, you’ll find a stunning cross-shaped reading room, three levels of book stacks, intricate iron scrollwork, and balconies that transport you back in time. But don’t worry, it has since been updated with outlets, modernized restrooms, and better lighting.

One of Uris Library’s coolest, and more modern, spots? The Uris Cocktail Lounge (minus the drinks). This popular study space is open 24/7 to Cornell students and offers panoramic views of Libe Slope, a large grassy slope overlooking Cayuga Lake.

13. The Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia

Source: Flickr user small_realm.

This library is for the history buffs, holding more than 16 million manuscripts, archival records, rare books, maps, broadsides, photographs, and audio and video recordings. And fun fact: the first collection at The Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library was actually hand-picked by Thomas Jefferson! Since then, the mission of this library has stayed the same—to collect, preserve, and share knowledge. This library was designed to match the rest of the buildings on campus and most of it is actually underground. While it may not have all the modern features of other libraries, its historic significance is reason enough to visit.

14. Fisher Fine Arts Library, University of Pennsylvania

UPenn

The Fisher Fine Arts Library is considered a major masterpiece in Philadelphia—and for good reason. This Victorian building was designed by architect Frank Furness and is one of the most unique buildings on campus. When you step inside, you’ll find towering brick and stone walls, grand arches, and long wooden tables that stretch across the room. They say it’s like studying in a castle, except with modern electricity and Wi-Fi. But words don’t do it justice. Check out the library’s Instagram and see for yourself!

15. The Geisel Library, University of California-San Diego

Wikimedia Commons user: Daderot

You might feel like you’re stepping into a spaceship, but don’t worry—it’s just the Geisel Library. Located in the center of campus, the Geisel Library is named in honor of Audrey and Theodor Seuss Geisel, or better known as the best-selling children’s author, Dr. Seuss. It’s home to over seven million books, plus the Mandeville Special Collections and Archives, where you’ll find original Dr. Seuss drawings, sketches, drafts, notebooks, and more. When it comes to finding a spot to study, you’ve got plenty of options: solo study pods, group spaces, quiet zones, and even a café for when you need an extra energy boost.

While cramming for your upcoming test or doing research for a paper might not sound like the greatest pastime, it’s not all so bad when you have an incredible library to study in. As you research and visit colleges, make a note of all the things on campus that stand out to you—including the libraries! It’s these special features on campus that can really enhance your college experience. Happy studying.

Are you interested in any of these schools? Use College Raptor’s free College Match tool to discover if they’re a good fit for you!