April 10 is National Library Workers Day. It’s a holiday in which we recognize the important contributions of librarians, library staff, users, administrators, and those who work tirelessly to keep our nation’s literary storehouses up and running. The celebration occurs as a part of National Library Week, which is observed the second week of April every year.
What better way to highlight this day and week than by recognizing some of the most beautiful libraries our great state of Texas has to offer? Below are five of the top Texas libraries as noted and recognized in an article by chron.com for not only their picturesque surroundings but for their timeless beauty. These magnificent buildings invite us into a world of wall-to-wall adventures, a world awaiting us one book at a time.
1. Houston Public Library
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The Julia Ideson Building is one of the oldest and most treasured structures in downtown Houston. This beautiful library opened its doors in 1926. The building was named after the first Head Librarian of the Houston Public Libraries, who held that position for four decades.
According to rumor, the library is haunted. The ghost of Jacob Frank Cramer, the library caretaker, is said to wander its halls along with his dog Petey.
2. Armstrong Browning Library
Photo: Facebook.com/ Armstrong Browning Library & Museum
Fast becoming a tourist spot to add your bucket list, Waco, Texas can also boast about having one of the most beautiful libraries in the state. Armstrong Browning Library is located at Baylor University.
In operation since 1951, shares chron.com, the library is dedicated to preserving and highlighting the works of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Housing a rare collection of 19th-century books, along with the world’s biggest collection of works from the Brownings, this is a definite beauty not to miss.
3. Harlan Crow’s Home Library
Photo: candysdirt.com
Nestled in Highland Park, Texas, this 2-story gem of a private library is home to many rare manuscripts, books, and more. Not the least of which is a 1493 letter given to the Spanish court by Columbus on his discoveries.
In the past, Dallas real estate investor Harlan Crow and his wife have graciously opened their “floor-to-ceiling” majestic library for tours. If they choose to do so again, don’t miss your chance to bask in the presence of over 8,000 volumes, a stunning collection by any standard.
4. Patrick Heath Public Library
Photo: Facebook.com/ Patrickheathlibrary
The Patrick Heath Public Library, in Boerne, Texas, is a modern, sleek library designed by OCO Architects, shares the chron.com.
The structure is an ode to green space, featuring a plentitude of native and “drought-tolerant” plants. Regionally quarried stone adorns the building along with whimsical art pieces found throughout its grounds.
5. McAllen Public Library
Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Loslazos
Rounding out the list, we have to give a well-justified nod to McAllen Public Library, which was recently named the most beautiful library in Texas by the magazine Tech Insider.
The library is unique and worthy of distinction as it was transformed from an abandoned Walmart into today’s beautiful architectural display. “I am honored that Tech Insider listed McAllen Public Library as the most beautiful library in Texas,” said Library Director Kate Horan. “This spacious facility has allowed us to expand services to our citizens, and the citizens have responded by making MPL their home base.”
