From landscapes from the book to simple symbols and lettering, fore-edge illustrations are a long-standing way to take a book from drab to fab without even touching the cover or the contents. But when did it start? Is it still a practice around today? 

Here’s everything you need to know:

What Are Fore-edge Paintings?

The fore-edge of a book is the side of the page block, the part usually hidden away when a book is slipped into its place on a bookshelf. Fore-edge painting or fore-edge illustrating is exactly what you would expect—it refers to artwork painted or drawn on the closed pages of a book. 

This practice has been around for a long time, and there are a few different types of fore-edge painting. Sometimes, artists will simply gild pages, covering the edges in gold or silver leaf. Other times, they may paint whole scenes or landscapes in a process known as ‘all-edge painting’. 

Some of the more ambitious fore-edge artists took this to a whole new level by creating ‘disappearing’ fore-edge paintings that were painted so specifically that, unless the book was looked at in a specific way, the artwork seemed nonexistent. This was done by painting only on the insides of the pages to create the image at the right angles.

This can be done from both sides of the book, too, to create one image when the book is fanned one way and an alternative image when the book is fanned the other direction. This was dubbed the ‘two-way double’ and gave artists the chance to make two amazing illustrations in one book. Artists could also do this by letting the book fall open and painting one half with one illustration and the other with another, equally as beautiful illustration. 

But those aren’t the only ways that fore-edge painting was experimented with! Artists also experimented with illustrations that had to be pinched and held in certain ways to see the artwork. Really, the only limitation to how fore-edge artworks were limited was by the artist’s imagination! 

What Kind Of Art Is Painted On The Books?

Fore-edge painting has been around for a long time, and so the art painted on the sides of the books has, naturally, developed and changed. But when we speak of traditional fore-edge painting, the illustrations cover a wide range of things! 

Early examples of fore-edge painting featured symbolism and heraldry, lettering, and other simple designs. But these developed and, by the 17th century, had become much more ornate. You could find landscape scenes, faces, buildings, historical monuments—anything that the artist desired, pretty much! The art didn’t even always match the contents of the book.

When Did Fore-edge Paintings Start?

The earliest fore-edge paintings have been traced as far back as the 10th century. These were the simpler designs, and are thought to have been used more for identification than for decoration. The fore-edge paintings with exciting illustrations and innovations like the disappearing fore-edge illustrations did not arrive on the scene until much later.

In England, it is thought to be the 1600s. In the USA, there is a legend that a duchess and friend of Charles II would often borrow books, and would frequently forget to return them (we’ve all got a friend like that!). In response to this, Charles II commissioned a court painter, Peter Lely, and a bookbinder, Samuel Mearne to devise a secret method for him to identify his books! 

There may be some truth to this legend. A former Superintendent of Bookbinding agreed that Samuel Mearne was the mastermind behind the art of fore-edge painting. However, research outside of the royal book collection suggests this wonderful art style might have reached the USA as long as 10 years before the legend took place. Historians instead claim that a painted copy of The Holy Bible is the first known instance, designed and dated to 1653. 

Either way, by 1750, the development of fore-edge painting was incredible. By this point, landscapes, religious scenes, and everything in between, painted in full color could be found on the side of books. This rise in popularity and designs is often accredited to The Edwards of Halifax, a family of bookbinders and booksellers who made fore-edge painting popular in London, leading other booksellers to create similar designs and products.

Do You Still See Fore-edge Paintings Today?

You can absolutely still see fore-edge painting today. There are still plenty of historical works, like those in the Ralph H. Wark Collection (the biggest fore-edge collection in the USA) and in various libraries and museums, but there are also modern equivalents! 

Plenty of books these days come with what are called ‘painted edges’ or ‘sprayed edges’. The latter is done digitally, so is not quite the same as fore-edge painting, but the former is very much a similar technique! These books are usually collectors’ editions or first prints and can be sold for quite a lot online to those who have their at-home collection. 

There are also lots of people out there who offer fore-edge painting services, taking books that people already own and adding illustrations to the fore-edge for them.

Some of The Most Impressive Fore-edge Paintings

1. The Pictorial Edition of The Works of Shakespeare, Vol 7. 

This old Shakespeare text has two wonderfully illustrated pictures of the playwright himself sitting neatly on the fore-edge.

2. About Yorkshire

This book about Yorkshire, a county in the UK, features a stunning image of York Cathedral! 

3. The Natural History of Monkeys 

This beautiful illustration of two monkeys in the wild is the perfect fore-edge artwork for a book on The Natural History of Monkeys! 

4. The Dictionnaire Grec-Francais 

This slightly more risque fore-edge is so intricately detailed it’s unreal! The tiny brush strokes that it would’ve required…

5. The Book of the Thames 

This stunning three-sided rendition of the Thames in London is worthy of its own frame and place on a wall! 

6. The Lord of The Rings 

A more modern fore-edge painting, this gorgeous cottagecore Hobbit house is just wonderful. 

The post Hidden Illustrations: The World Of Fore-edge Painting appeared first on Magazine.

The story of the NYPL begins in the late 19th century. New York City, experiencing a surge in population and cultural significance, lacked a central library worthy of its stature. Two existing libraries, the Astor and Lenox Libraries, fell short of the vision. Enter Samuel J. Tilden, a former governor with a grand dream. Tilden bequeathed a significant portion of his fortune to establish a “free library and reading room” for the city, laying the groundwork for the NYPL’s creation.In 1895, the Astor and Lenox libraries merged with the Tilden Trust, forming “The New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundations.”  

Prominent librarian Dr. John Shaw Billings became the first director, and construction began on a grand building on Fifth Avenue, replacing the Croton Reservoir. The renowned architectural firm Carrère and Hastings brought Billings’ vision to life, resulting in a majestic Beaux-Arts masterpiece clad in marble – the largest structure of its kind in the United States at the time.  After years of construction, the NYPL finally opened its doors to the public in 1911, marking a significant milestone in the city’s cultural landscape.

A Must-Visit for Every Explorer: Unveiling the NYPL’s Grandeur

Today, the NYPL is not just a library; it’s a cultural touchstone.  With over 92 branches throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island, it offers a wealth of resources for everyone. But the crown jewel is the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (formerly the Main Branch), a sight that inspires awe. Its influence extends far beyond its physical walls.  This literary landmark has become a fixture in pop culture, making cameos in countless films and television shows.  Breakfast at Tiffany’s offered a glimpse into the library’s elegance, while Ghostbusters used it as a backdrop for their otherworldly battle. Sex and the City and Gossip Girl cemented the NYPL’s status as a trendy Manhattan destination.  These pop culture references solidify the library’s place in the hearts and minds of people around the world and particularly of New Yorkers.

A Monumental Feat of Architectural Grandeur

Without a doubt, NYPL’s most outstanding feature is the Rose Main Reading Room. Spanning nearly two city blocks, this majestic space is a testament to the beauty of architectural design and the importance of public spaces dedicated to learning and contemplation. With its soaring ceilings, ornate decorations, and natural light flooding through tall windows, the reading room offers an atmosphere of tranquility and grandeur that encourages visitors to explore, study, slow down and reflect.

The room’s restoration in 1998, followed by its temporary closure and subsequent reopening in 2016, highlights the NYPL’s commitment to preserving its history while adapting to modern needs. Imagine yourself surrounded by towering bookshelves, currently holding over 50 million items, each one a potential gateway to a new adventure. Absolutely magical.

Wonderful Exhibitions to See

The Polonsky Exhibition Hall: This newly opened exhibition space showcases a rotating selection of treasures from the NYPL’s vast collections.  Exhibits might feature anything from art and artifacts to rare books and historical documents.  It’s a great place to discover hidden gems and gain a broader appreciation for the library’s holdings.

The Milstein Exhibition Hall: This permanent exhibition space delves into the history of the NYPL itself. Explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the library’s founding, growth, and cultural impact.

The Bill Blass Costume Collection:  Fashion enthusiasts will delight in this unique collection of over 10,000 garments and accessories dating from the 18th century to the present day.  Admire iconic pieces by renowned designers and gain insights into the evolution of fashion throughout history.

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The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Print and Photograph Archive:  This archive houses a staggering collection of over 12 million images, including photographs, prints, posters, and maps.  History buffs and photography aficionados can delve into this visual treasure trove and discover a unique perspective on the world.

Plan your trip out well

The NYPL’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (formerly the Main Branch) is a must-visit for any bibliophile or architecture enthusiast. Here’s how to plan your trip:

Getting There:

The library is conveniently located at 476 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018.  It’s easily accessible by subway (stations at Bryant Park on the B, D, F, and M lines, and 42nd Street on the 7 line).

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday and Monday: Closed

Free Tours:

• Building Tours (offered most Tuesdays and Thursdays): Explore the architectural highlights of the Schwarzman Building, including the iconic Rose Main Reading Room.
• Exhibition Tours (offered most Wednesdays and Fridays): Delve deeper into the current exhibition at the Polonsky Exhibition Hall.

Pro Tip: Check the NYPL website (https://www.nypl.org) for the latest tour schedule and to register in advance (recommended).

Where to Stay:

New York City boasts a wide range of accommodation options. Here are some suggestions near the NYPL:

• Luxury: The Peninsula New York (across the street from the library) offers unparalleled luxury and stunning views of Fifth Avenue.
• Mid-Range: The Bryant Park Hotel is a stylish option just steps from the library.
• Budget-Friendly: Several hostels can be found within walking distance, offering a more affordable option.

What Else to See Nearby:

• Bryant Park: Take a break from the library and relax in this beautiful public park, perfect for people-watching or enjoying a picnic lunch.
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art at MoMA, located just a short walk from the NYPL.
• Strand Book Store‍
• The Book Cellar: Located at 1465 York Ave, New York, NY 10075, USA. Opening hours today are Tuesday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM.‍
• Strand Book Store: Landmark shop specializing in new, used & rare books from philosophy to finance, plus bookish gifts.Opening hours today are Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Download the NYPL app for a digital map, information on current exhibitions, and a schedule of events.
• Photography is permitted in most areas, but be respectful of silent zones and other visitors.
• Food and drinks are not allowed inside the Rose Main Reading Room, but there are cafes located within the Schwarzman Building.
• Lockers are available for storing your belongings.

Enjoy your visit to the New York Public Library!

The post New York’s Cultural Heart: New York Public Library appeared first on Magazine.

Founded in 1854 as the Melbourne Public Library, the State Library Victoria boasts a rich and storied history.  It holds the distinction of being the oldest public library in all of Australia, and  one of the very first free libraries established anywhere in the world.  Over the course of its impressive tenure, the library has undergone a remarkable transformation.  From its humble beginnings as a single room overflowing with books, it has blossomed into a sprawling complex occupying a full city block. But the library’s history goes beyond bricks and mortar. Here are some fascinating stories that unfolded within its walls:

• A literary haven for outlaws? Rumor has it that notorious bushranger Ned Kelly himself frequented the library in the late 19th century, perhaps seeking solace or inspiration amongst the stacks. While there’s no concrete evidence, the legend adds a touch of intrigue to the library’s rich history.
• A pioneering spirit: In 1913, the library became one of the first institutions in the world to establish a Children’s Room, recognizing the importance of fostering a love of reading from a young age. This forward-thinking approach continues to inspire libraries around the globe.
• A repository of resilience: During World War II, the library played a vital role in safeguarding Melbourne’s cultural heritage. Librarians meticulously documented the war effort and meticulously preserved precious collections, ensuring their survival for future generations

Why You Must Visit

The State Library Victoria has transcended its origins as a traditional library, evolving into a dynamic cultural hub for the 21st century. Here’s why it should be on your Melbourne must-see list:

• A Global Powerhouse: Did you know the State Library Victoria is the 3rd busiest library in the world? Immerse yourself in this vibrant atmosphere, buzzing with students, researchers, and book lovers from across the globe.
• Beyond the Books: The library is a hub for community events, hosting everything from author talks and lectures to film screenings and workshops. You might even catch a live podcast recording in their dedicated studio!
• Empowering Entrepreneurs: The library offers a suite of resources and programs specifically designed to help budding entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Think of it as a springboard for your next big idea!

A Grandiose Sanctuary for the Mind

Stepping beneath the magnificent octagonal dome of the La Trobe Reading Room and prepare to be awestruck. Sunlight streams through stained glass windows, casting a warm glow on the seemingly endless rows of bookshelves that reach towards the heavens.  This architectural marvel was originally known as the Domed Reading Room when it opened in 1903. Designed by architect Joseph Reed, it drew inspiration from grand libraries like the British Museum in London and the Library of Congress in Washington D.C.  Reed’s vision was to create a space that embodied the pursuit of knowledge, and his design speaks volumes (pardon the pun).

Over the years, the La Trobe Reading Room has undergone some subtle changes. Renovations in 2003 saw the restoration of the skylights hidden behind copper sheathing for decades, bathing the room in its original natural light. The original oak desks and chairs, adorned with traditional green glass light shades, have been lovingly preserved, creating a timeless atmosphere. Stepping into the La Trobe Reading Room is akin to entering a scene from a historical movie, except it’s all very real. The hushed murmur of focused minds and the gentle rustle of turning pages create a symphony of intellectual pursuit.  Inhale the scent of aged paper and leather bindings, and feel the weight of history all around you. This is a sanctuary for scholars, students, and anyone seeking a haven for quiet contemplation and immersion in the written word.

A Feast for the Curious Mind‍

The State Library Victoria is a constant hive of activity, offering a diverse program of exhibitions guaranteed to spark your curiosity.  Currently, you can delve into the legend himself with  “Ned Kelly: Armour and Anarchy”. This captivating exhibition showcases the infamous suit of armor worn by Ned Kelly, offering a unique glimpse into Australia’s bushranger history.

For bibliophiles of all ages, “The World of Book” exhibition is a must-see. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of book illustrations, from delicate hand-drawn works to cutting-edge digital creations.  Explore the evolution of bookbinding and printing, and discover the stories behind some of your favorite literary classics.

The library isn’t just for adults!  The Children’s Library is a vibrant space brimming with colorful displays, interactive activities, and storytelling sessions designed to ignite a love of reading in young minds.  Regular events like puppet shows and author readings for kids make the library a fun and enriching place for the whole family.

Plan Your Visit

Getting There:

The library is situated in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD at 9 La Trobe Street.  Trams conveniently stop nearby, and several train stations like Flinders Street and Parliament are within walking distance.

Opening Hours:

• Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Free Tours and Events:

• Building Tours: Take a fascinating journey through the library’s architectural history, exploring hidden gems and learning about its evolution. Tours run regularly, so check the website for current schedules and booking options.
• Exhibition Tours: Delve deeper into the themes and stories showcased in the library’s captivating exhibitions. These tours are often offered in conjunction with current displays.
• Author Talks and Workshops: Engage with renowned authors, participate in creative writing workshops, or attend lectures on diverse topics. The library calendar is brimming with exciting events for all ages and interests.

Pro Tip: Explore the library’s website for a comprehensive events calendar and to book your spot for tours and workshops in advance.

Where to Stay:

Melbourne offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some suggestions near the State Library:

• Luxury: For an opulent stay, consider The Langham, Melbourne, located right across the street.
• Mid-Range: The Adelphi Melbourne offers a stylish and central location.
• Budget-Friendly: Several hostels can be found within walking distance, providing a more affordable option.

What Else to See Nearby:

• Royal Botanic Gardens: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of these beautiful gardens, boasting diverse flora and stunning landscapes.
• Melbourne Museum: Explore Victoria’s rich history and natural wonders at this world-class museum.
• Federation Square: This lively public square is a hub for events, exhibitions, and street performers.
• ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image): Delve into the world of film, television, and digital culture at ACMI.

Bookstores:

• Readings State Library: Conveniently located within the library itself, Readings offers a vast selection of books across all genres.
• The Paperback Bookshop: A Melbourne institution, this independent bookstore boasts an impressive collection of new and used books.
• Readings Carlton: Explore another branch of Readings, this one located in the lively Carlton district.
• Hill of Content: This independent bookstore specializes in rare and antiquarian books, perfect for bibliophiles seeking unique treasures.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Download the State Library Victoria app for a digital map, information on current exhibitions and events, and even access to some digitized collections.
• Photography is permitted in most areas, but be mindful of silent zones and other visitors.
• Food and drinks are not allowed in designated reading areas, but cafes and vending machines are located within the library.
• Lockers are available for storing your belongings.

Enjoy your enriching exploration of the State Library Victoria!

The post Australia’s Secret Gem: State Library of Victoria appeared first on Magazine.

Nestled within the heart of Trinity College, the Long Room is one of the most striking aspects of the university. Built between 1712 and 1732 as part of the college’s Old Library, it was designed to house the expanding collection of books, because since 1801 the college is entitled to one free copy of every book published in Ireland and Britain. Needless to say, the Long Room soon outgrew its humble beginnings and in 1860 the beautiful barrel ceiling was added, expanding the space into the architectural marvel we see now.

To walk through the Long Room is to feel like Belle in Beauty and the Beast. The room stretches for over 65 metres, with the oak-panelled walls rising to a breathtaking height of nearly 14 metres. Sunlight streams in through the arched windows, casting warmth upon row after row of books. Long ladders allow access to the higher volumes, while spiral staircases take readers to the upper levels.

Treasures at Trinity College

Aside from being a book-lover’s dream setting, the Long Room is famous for hosting two items in particular: the Book of Kells, and the Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

The Book of Kells is an ancient masterpiece of calligraphy and art, dating back over twelve hundred years. It came to Trinity College in 1661 for safekeeping from the Cromwellian raids of the time and went on display in the 19^th century. Created by monks in either Scotland or Ireland (the debate on this still rages on!), it is a hand-written and -illustrated manuscript of the four Gospels of the New Testament. Combining intricate Christian icons with Celtic knots, mythical creatures, and human and animal figures, carefully etched onto vellum, the Book of Kells has been celebrated for centuries for its beauty and craftsmanship.

This ever-popular tourist attraction offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of medieval Europe and is well-worth the often-long queues.

Another wonderful display in the Long Room is of one of the few remaining copies of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic. This document is the physical embodiment of the intention to have the Republic of Ireland as a free state, having been ruled by Britain for centuries. Along with these very notable examples, you can also find treasures like “Brian Boru’s Harp” (a medieval instrument which was used as the model for the coat of arms of Ireland, as well as the trademarked Guinness Stout logo) and a variety of marble busts of college patrons, famous writers, and philosophers.

Harry Potter and the Long Room

Having seen the amazing photos of the space, many have wondered were the library scenes in Harry Potter filmed in the Long Room? Unfortunately, the answer is no – it was actually filmed in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. The Horcrux cave is in Ireland though, at the cliffs of Moher, if you did want an IRL visit to a Harry Potter movie location while travelling the country. Speaking of movies, The Jedi archives of the Jedi Temple in the movie Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clone also look incredibly similar, but the movie makers apparently dispute the Long Room as being the model for their Jedi Archives, even if they do look strikingly alike…

Planning your visit

Located at College Green, Dublin 2, Trinity College is mere minutes away from other Dublin highlights like St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, The Spire, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. When you walk in the main gates, carry on straight into the Library Square and the Old Library will be on your right. The College is accessible by bus, DART and easily walkable from the previous locations mentioned.

The tour of the Long Room at Trinity College is self-guided, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.  Going around the Long Room itself typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, but visitors are welcome to spend as much time as they want in the library. The entire Book of Kells experience takes around ninety minutes.  

There are currently vast restoration works going on with volumes in the Old Library, so only the first four rows in the Long Room currently hold books… but the space is still stunning to visit. See a cool timelapse of the books being removed here:

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Early bird adult entry to the Book of Kells Experience costs €21.50 and this includes The Book of Kells & the Old Library, The Long Room, The Book of Kells 360 interactive exhibit, and more. It’s advisable to book online to bypass potential queues, and for those who wish to explore at a quieter time, the later afternoon slots are generally less busy, as larger tour groups often begin early in the day.

The exhibit is open seven days a week, and winter opening hours are 9.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.  

Trinity College also offers a Virtual Library as well as a certain amount of the Book of Kells in digital format.

The post The Most Beautiful Library in the World: Trinity College Library appeared first on Magazine.

Morgan Library & Museum began as the book collection of financier and corporate leviathan, John Pierpont Morgan, AKA J.P. Morgan, back in the late 19th century. He commissioned Charles McKim, an award-winning architect known for his American Renaissance style, to build the library between 1902 and 1906.

As grand as it was even from the get-go, it was originally just a private book collection with many rare and precious items. It wasn’t until eleven years after Morgan’s death that his son, J.P. Morgan, Jr., felt it was too valuable to keep under lock and key. So, he opened its doors to make it available to the public and scholars who could use its knowledge to enrich society.

The library’s collection has only expanded over the years, gathering first-edition classics and original Gutenberg Bibles, among other priceless artifacts. The building itself has also seen many additions, including J.P. Morgan Jr.’s former home in 1988 and a new annex built in 2006 that added a café, performance hall, shop, and more.

A Neoclassical Masterpiece

As you can imagine, Morgan Library & Museum has a wealth of knowledge and history you can’t find anywhere else. And it doesn’t hurt that even almost 120 years after it was built, the design of the original library is still massively impressive. The intricate ceiling paintings and mosaic windows in particular give the place an almost religious sense of significance. You’d think it was a cathedral built by Michaelangelo himself – but then, McKim was already like the Michaelangelo of his day, so… close enough.

More than just a pretty piece of architecture, the library’s unique collection is a bastion of historical, leather-bound treasures. The only downside is that it’s more museum than library, as pretty much all the books are locked up or behind glass. Not that I’m complaining, mind. A lot of these books are crazy old. They’d probably crumble to pieces if you handled them with anything rougher than a pair of tweezers.

Getting a Glimpse at the Collection

While you may not be able to check out any book as you please, rest assured that they don’t always have the same old things on display. The library regularly switches up its exhibitions with new pieces and themes. Sometimes they’ll showcase new pieces or items lent to the library, such as the drawings from the Clement C. Moore Collection, set to be gifted to the library and put on display from June 28th, 2024.

Most of the time, though, they’ll pull out a gem that’s been in the library’s collection for years or even decades, hidden out of sight until it’s ready for public viewing again. This can range from gorgeous, centuries-old books with their intricate illustrations and delicate pages still intact, to paintings from all over the world.

West Wing, East Wing, and Everything In Between

As I mentioned before, the library has seen a lot of additions over the years. As of today, the complex contains three buildings seamlessly woven together: the original library, the Morgan House, and the Renzo Piano expansion. The original library consists of a marble rotunda, the study, the North Room, and of course, the famous library and its three-tiered floors of shelves. The Morgan House was where J.P. Morgan’s house used to stand before he knocked it down to put up a garden, and it’s also where J.P. Morgan, Jr.’s house was. Nowadays, it has a dining hall, a gift shop, and a conservation center.

Finally, the newest addition, the 2006 Renzo Piano Expansion, gave the complex a sleek, modern face and several new galleries. It’s the main area for hosting exhibitions of rare books and original manuscripts. It also houses the Morgan Café and the central court that links the separate wings together.

Plan Your Visit

The two easiest ways to get to the Morgan Library & Museum are the bus and the subway. For bus, there are several stops right in front of the library; just take the M2, M3, M4, or Q32 to 36th Street. For subway, take the No. 6 to 33rd Street, then head one street westward to Madison Avenue and turn right to go north until you’re between 36th and 37th Street. Can’t miss it!

Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016

The Morgan Library & Museum is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday to Sunday, it’s open 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and stays open two extra hours on Friday, from 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Although available to the public, the Morgan Library is still technically a private institution, so to get in, you need to buy a ticket at $25 per adult and $13 for students. There’s a slight discount for groups ($2 discount per person with at least ten people), though if you want a guided tour, you’ll need to fork over an additional $150 for the whole group.

Fear not, though, my fellow broke folk – if you snag a reservation in advance, you can get in for free on Fridays from 5 – 7 p.m. College students also have a chance to get in free on the first Sunday of every month – but again, these free tickets get snatched up like hot cakes, so you have to reserve ahead of time.

Even so, I’d say the ticket price is pretty reasonable to get to step into a piece of history like this. As you might expect from such a prestigious, long-standing institution, the Morgan Library also offers a variety of tours, from the aforementioned group tours to audio guides and even virtual tours via Zoom. (Don’t even have to leave the comfort of your living room to see it!) All in all, this library has a lot to offer.

The post American Renaissance at its Finest: Morgan Library appeared first on Magazine.

Once renowned as “the most magnificent public library in the country,” the Old Cincinnati Library was destroyed in 1955, seemingly without a second thought. Originally intended to be an Opera House, construction began, but Truman Handy’s Opera House Company went bankrupt in 1868. The building was then sold to the library. Although the construction wasn’t completed until 1874, the library officially opened its doors in 1870.

Located at 629 Vine Street, the Old Cincinnati Library soon became known for its impressive interior, housing around 60,000 books with the capacity for 300,000. The total cost of the lot and the construction amounted to  $383,594.53, an equivalent to a whopping $7.7 million today.

Local architect James Mclaughlin primarily designed the building, but it was said that the true mastermind behind its design was William Frederick Poole, a librarian from Boston who ran the library from 1869 to 1873. Poole kept the library open seven days a week, added novels to the collection, and primarily appointed women for “nearly all professional operations.”

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Featuring enormous pillars, five levels of cast iron shelving with intricate carvings, marble floors, and an atrium boasting a skylight ceiling, the library has often been compared to fantastical scenes from Harry Potter. The main entrance displayed the busts of William Shakespeare, John Milton, and Benjamin Franklin.

So, why was such an incredible building demolished?

While the Cincinnati Library, often referred to as “Old Main” may have looked magnificent, it was not practical. In the summer, the library became stiflingly hot due to the lack of windows.

The lack of windows also made it difficult to read, even after electric lights were installed. And in the winter, the coal furnaces covered the outside of the books with black soot. The library even had to hire “book cleaners”, employees responsible for cleaning the soot from the books and stacks.

Old Main had also become overrun with books, which eventually exceeded the capacity of 300,000. While some books were kept in the basement, it was prone to flooding, thus warping the volumes. Moreover, the public was not allowed in the stacks. Instead, pages had to pull books from the shelves as it was simply too dangerous for the patrons.

According to the book Free & Public, at least two of Old Main’s pages passed away. In 1875, Willie Haldecamp, books in hand, took the elevator to the third floor and fell. Then, in 1902, John Sloan fell down the elevator shaft. Due to the unsafe conditions and infrastructure issues, a new building was constructed.

In 1955, the library was moved just down the road to a more contemporary building at 800 Vine Street. The magnificent former library was then demolished, and now a parking garage stands in its place. The three busts of prominent figures were removed from the main entrance of the former library, and placed in the garden of the new location as an ode to Old Main.

The post Demolished Library. Why? appeared first on Magazine.