Library Vacations Are Trending For Creative Expansion
Literary Stays for Thinkers, Creatives, and Slow Mornings…
The breeze brushes through your hair, your paperback book rests on your lap, the ocean waves are in front of you, and the sun is shining brightly all around you. When you decide to take a book on vacation, you decide to unplug and recharge your mind. It’s an act of self-love. While reading enhances cognitive abilities, alleviates stress, and promotes restful sleep, it is precisely because of these benefits that you embarked on a vacation. Why not combine these elements by incorporating reading into your act of self-care? We’ve discovered five libraries worldwide that will romanticize your travel.
The Return of the Reading Room
Do you recall the 45-minute to one-hour reading time in grade school and, to some extent, in high school? Or the resurgence of book clubs, both online and in-person? Books have a remarkable ability to bring people together. While you can explore museums or restaurants during travel, have you considered venturing into a library? The excitement of being surrounded by history, old and new editions, or books in a foreign language can ignite a sense of curiosity that revitalizes your intellectual well-being. Outside of the physical books on shelves, libraries are architecture and design heaven. They offer a sensory-rich environment where you can be surrounded by natural light, rough and smooth textures, plants, and artwork.
Bibliothèque nationale de France, Paris
Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF), a must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and admirers of late 20th-century French architecture, is one of five libraries. The Richelieu location features a stunning Oval Room, open to the public and free of charge, offering over 20,000 books. The library houses modern and contemporary collections, research collections, and provides digital access to online holdings. With its grand reading rooms, ironwork, and visually appealing aesthetic, the BnF is a unique destination for travelers seeking a leisurely exploration of archives, stories, and lineages.
Brodie Castle Library, Scotland
Nestled within the historic Brodie Castle, make your way into a 16th-century library filled with over 6,000 books. This castle was once the home of the Brodie clan for over four centuries. Inside, you’ll find cozy sofas, armchairs, lamps, and a red carpet that invites you to stay a while and explore. Immerse yourself in its breathtaking architecture, surrounded by lush greenery that stretches as far as the eye can see. If you’re a fan of fine French furniture, Scottish paintings, and old books, this place is a treasure trove of history and literature.
New York Public Library
Inside the Stephen A. Schwarzman building, with its marble, carved stone, bronze details, and oak tables, offers a captivating atmosphere. Candlelights, desk lamps, and stunning chandeliers illuminate the glass windows, creating an ambiance of knowledge. Quietly located in the heart of New York City, this library is a haven for literature lovers. Known for its extensive historical collections, it hosts exhibitions and reading rooms for scholars and the general public. You don’t have to be a New Yorker to come and learn or explore! Whether you’re a self-guided or guided wanderer, this library is an ideal destination for nomads seeking inspiration.
No matter where you plan your next visit, close to the beach or near a busy city, there is a library waiting for you to explore. You can get lost between the aisles and discover a new book, collection, or magazine that leaves you inspired. Remember that this is your moment to rejuvenate and relax, take it to the next level by indulging in literature, architecture, and knowledge.
