Recently I've been working on getting my books into school and public libraries. So this month I'm going with a library theme here and highlighting some interesting ones.
U.S./CANADA BORDER RUNS THROUGH A LIBRARY
The Haskell Free Library and Opera House operates in two countries simultaneously.
Vermont and Quebec have an unusual meeting place. The adjacent towns of Derby Line (VT) and Stanstead (CAN) share a library/opera house that's built right on the international border. It's literally in both countries, and operates as such, staffed with residents from both nations. Modern "sensibilities" have divided the once-intertwined towns. The painted border has been replaced with fences, security cameras and checkpoints. The library interior is virtually the only place wherein one can freely step across the border. Interesting note: the library's front door is in the U.S., so its residents have a much easier time in and out. For a more on this unique place, click the picture.
WORLD'S OLDEST LIBRARY OPENS TO THE PUBLIC
The reading room at the 1,157-year-old al-Qarawiyyin library.
The al-Qarawiyyin library, located in Fez, Morocco is part of al-Qarawiyyin University, which opened in 859 and is the oldest continually operating university in the world. After a major renovation in 2012, the majestic, almost mystical library has been opened to the public for the first time. For more info and pictures check out this report.
KC LIBRARY IMPRESSES
The giant book spines make up the facade of the parking garage of the Kansas City Public Library. The titles immortalized in the architecture were decided upon by a community vote. Pretty cool.
A MONOLITH IN GERMANY
The City Library in Stuttgart was designed by Korean architect Eun Young Yi. There should be a warning sign that if you get locked out, HAL 9000 might not let you back in.
KIDS RULE IN MICHIGAN
The Southfield Public Library boasts a pretty amazing children's book section. There's no doubt in my mind that creative design like this helps turn kids into lifelong readers.
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