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The Princeton Public Library
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Princeton Public Library of Princeton, New Jersey
While the Neilson Hays Library is a representation of the traditional library, the Princeton Public Library is an image of a modern library. Even as one walks by the library it is instantly clear that it is 'modernity' reincarnate. Situated in the heart of Princeton, NJ and is adjacent to the majestic Princeton University campus, the architecture departs from traditional red brick and grey stone walls for glass and steel, and evokes Frank Lloyd Wright with its geometric outdoors.
As the saying goes, "You can't judge a book by its cover" so as I walked in I was prepared to disappointed by a ratty indoors. Luckily, I wasn't! The library reminded me of a Borders or Barnes & Nobles (which is a compliment in this situation) with its setup; three colorful floors completely filled with books, couches and tables, and one hundred computers for patrons to use. The bottom floor is dedicated for Fiction & Audiobooks; the second floor for Non-Fiction & DVDs; the third floor for Children & Teens. All areas are spacious and well-lit,...
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Unintentionally (by me) this third featured library has managed to marry the modernity of Princeton Public Library with the traditional(ness) exhibited by Neilsen Hays Library, providing an exemplary example for other libraries that hope to update for the future. T.B. Scott Free Library, located in Merrill, Wisconsin [population 10,145], is a gem in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.
Merrill is a town of registered historical buildings and the library is no exception. T.B. Scott Library, a Wisconsin Register Landmark, opened its doors March 25, 1891, supported by WI state legislator T. B. Scott's bequest of $10,000 and later sustained by a substantial Andrew Carniege grant. It sits next to a river and often becomes pleasantly full with teenagers when the neighboring middle school concludes its school day.
Because Merrill is a one-library town TB Scott Free Library makes sure to fulfill all possible needs: private one-person study rooms and group study rooms, a fascinating Genealogy & History Room where patrons can purchase amazingly in-depth pamphlets on the history of the Library and the town for only 50 cents, a...
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This is a beginning to a series on great English libraries around the world. I will only report on those that I have frequented. All are invited to participate with additional library recommendations.
Neilson Hays Library of Bangkok, Thailand
When I think of English libraries in far-off lands, my imagings must have taken root in this library; I wouldn't be surprised to learn that I had visited it in a past life. A word to describe it -- "colonial". Tall white columns hold up upside-down cresent moons in the ceiling; dark brown teak cabinets with glass door fronts hold the books in, away from the heat and light; sturdy brown and olive chairs provide structure and discipline to the spine, although modernity has been allowed into the children's section by way of red and blue beanbags. What a thing, in picking out a book, to have to open a glass door as if selecting the next potion for a chemistry experiment. The Neilson Hays Library makes me dizzy from romantic nostalgia. Of course, the steadfast whitewashed stone walls limit exuberant growth in the collection (as there would be no possible way for additions to the building) as...
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