Some of Europe's Best Libraries

From small-town treasures to world-renowned institutions...

I’m a big fan of libraries. Their value and importance cannot be overstated, as dedicated spaces of learning, contemplation, and creativity that are open to everyone. Studies by Arts Council England show that every £1 put into libraries gives back about £5 in social value, which includes educational support, boosting mental well-being, and strengthening community ties.

Despite how much they bring to the table, many libraries are struggling with major funding cuts. In the UK, more than 800 libraries have shut since 2010, and library funding has dropped by over 20% in the past decade. 

So in today’s Substack I thought I’d spotlight some of Europe's best libraries, from small-town treasures to world-renowned institutions, that continue to thrive against the odds. 

This is just a small selection of all the incredible libraries across Europe – so do forgive me if I’ve missed your favourites out, and give them a shout out in the comments!

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The London Library

Established in 1841 by Thomas Carlyle, this is one of my favourite libraries in my home town - in fact, it’s where I wrote most of The Story of Art Without Men! Home to over 17 miles of shelves, filled with 1 million+ books, they also host great events, from literary salons to jazz nights, and great programmes for emerging writers. 

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Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève - Paris

Nestled in the heart of Paris, this architectural masterpiece combines Renaissance Revival design with an extensive collection of historical texts - over 2 million documents!

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The Warburg Institute - London

The Warburg Institute is home to one of the most important collections of visual, scientific and occult material in the world. Previously closed to the public, it is now open to everyone! At least half of the books can’t be found in any other library in the country, and their Photographic Collection contains around 400,000 images (divided up by sections that range from “Fabulous Animals” to “Marvels and Monsters”).

Plus, it is now home to Edmund de Waal’s Library of Exile, a very moving installation that features books by exiled authors.

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Dokk1 – Aarhus, Denmark

‘Redefining the concept of the library’, this ultra-modern ‘culture house’ is Scandinavia’s largest public library. Its futuristic design and open-plan layout includes interactive exhibits and a Children’s Lab and Family Lounge.

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De Krook - Ghent, Belgium

One of a group of new European libraries that strive to be ‘a living room for the 21st century’, De Krook is an innovative space dedicated to fostering community, connection, and collaboration. 

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Biblioteca Marciana – Venice, Italy

Located in Venice’s historic Piazzetta San Marco, this library is a Renaissance marvel, housing classical texts dating back to the 15th century. It was once one of Europe’s most important intellectual hubs and still showcases a rich collection of art and antiquities.

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National Library - Warsaw, Poland

This Modernist library was first built in the 60s and recently reimagined for the 21st century; Warsaw’s rich cultural heritage meets sleek, modern design. 

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The Feminist Library - London

A cosy and powerful space packed with feminist literature, activism resources, and a strong community vibe.

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Glasgow Women’s Library

Glasgow’s nod to women’s history and literature. Featuring rare feminist texts and local activism, this is a space that celebrates women's voices, and is the only Accredited Museum in the UK dedicated to women's history.

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Gabriel García Márquez Library - Barcelona, Spain

Voted 2023’s “The Best Public Library in the World” - from the outside it looks like a huge, white stack of books!

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Royal Library - Copenhagen, Denmark

Known as the Black Diamond, this stunning glass-fronted library blends Scandinavian sleek with waterfront views.

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Wirtschaftsuniversität Bibliothek - Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s WU Library is a futuristic marvel. It stands out for its bold angles, sharp lines, and flowing, almost gravity-defying spaces.

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John Rylands Library, Manchester

Gothic architecture at its finest! This Manchester classic feels like a Hogwarts set, with dark wood, vaulted ceilings, and endless hidden corners to explore.

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Gladstone’s Library, Wales

Nestled in North Wales, Gladstone’s is one of the UK’s only residential libraries — part library, part historic house.

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