Visitors to this library are in for a real-world education in modernist architecture.

Named the fifth most beautiful building in America in 1885, this former courthouse boasts the best view in the Village.

The oldest public library in Ireland.

The works of poetry's biggest names grace the walls of the city of Leiden, all carefully painted by hand.

A mechanized clock where a man fights off a dragon, crab, and rooster.

Yale University's home for rare works, including the mysterious Voynich Manuscript.

One of the oldest libraries in England, and one of the last of the great medieval chained collections.

A 19th century artistocrat's mansion, turned into a library, hidden in a modern library.

At the crypt of St. Mary of Eulogies and the Dead you are left alone to ponder mortality among piles of skulls.

Home to the infamous "Typhoid Mary" and the worst loss of life in New York's history prior to September 11, 2001.