All the information that you’ll ever need is available at a click today. Yet, libraries have not lost their charm. Especially for study abroad aspirants. I see this play out every day when I talk to students. Campus libraries still spark excitement.
“A university is just a group of buildings gathered around a library.” – Shelby Foote
Now, aesthetics are never the deciding factor in choosing a university. But they do shape first impressions. At GradRight, we’ve guided students in shortlisting universities based on 8 million+ data points. And yes, campus vibe matters more than you think.
So below, I list down 10 of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Plus, what these beautiful spaces can tell you about university culture, investment, and student life.
How I curated this list of the most beautiful libraries in the world
To build this list of the most instagrammable libraries in the world, I looked at what students actually search for, photograph, and talk about. These universities are also consistently labelled as top university libraries in the world across global rankings, student forums, and architecture features.
The key factors that I considered were:
- Instagram Hashtag Volume: Universities with high organic tagging around their libraries, which is a common indicator of the most photogenic university libraries.
- Student Survey Popularity: Libraries repeatedly mentioned in student polls, lifestyle rankings, and lists of universities with beautiful libraries.
- Architectural Recognition: Mentions in design magazines, publications, and guides featuring famous university libraries and iconic university libraries around the world.
- Photo and Aesthetic Trends: Libraries frequently appearing in lists like “most beautiful university libraries” and “most aesthetic college libraries”
Read on to check out the top 10.
The top 10 most Instagrammable university libraries
Below are 10 beautiful libraries in universities that often rank at the top in lists and polls.
1. The George Peabody Library – Johns Hopkins University, USA
With soaring Neo-Grec architecture, cast-iron balconies, and a glowing atrium, the Peabody Library looks like a scene from a period film. It is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Needless to say, it draws students, architecture lovers, and even tourists, who want to capture its timeless aesthetic.
2. Trinity College Library – University of Dublin, Ireland
The iconic Trinity College Library, commonly called the Long Room, is lined with wooden arches, marble busts, and shelves endlessly stretching upwards. Named among the most instagrammable libraries in the world, it is the perfect blend of history, charm, and grandeur. It is a favourite among students seeking classic aesthetic college libraries.
3. Bodleian Library – University of Oxford, UK
One of the world’s iconic college libraries, the Bodleian impresses with medieval reading halls, vaulted ceilings, and heritage archives. Its cinematic presence is featured in films like Harry Potter too. It is also one of the most photogenic university libraries and a must-visit for anyone who loves old-world academic beauty.
4. Widener Library – Harvard University, USA
With towering columns and an unmistakable façade, Widener stands as one of the top libraries in Ivy League universities. Inside, you’ll find vast reading rooms, marble details, and scholarly ambience. That’s what makes it both functional and grand at the same time, often frequenting on the lists of famous libraries every student should visit.
5. The Geisel Library – UC San Diego, USA
Geisel’s futuristic, brutalist design is bold, geometric, and unmistakably modern. This structure is considered one of the most beautiful university libraries in contemporary architecture. It is one of those libraries with stunning interiors and striking exteriors.
6. Suzzallo Library – University of Washington, USA
Often described as a “cathedral for books,” the Suzzallo library is well-known for its gothic arches, stained glass, and vast reading halls. It’s one of the university libraries worth visiting for anyone who loves dramatic, peaceful study spaces.
7. Philips Exeter Library – Exeter, USA
Designed by Louis Kahn, this minimalist masterpiece is known for its geometric forms and serene central court. It’s one of the iconic university libraries around the world, appreciated for its calm atmosphere. It is one of the best libraries for photography due to its perfect symmetry.
8. Fisher Fine Arts Library – University of Pennsylvania, USA
Featuring Victorian Gothic architecture, red sandstone, and dramatic staircases, this library blends historical detail with artistic charm. It’s one of the stunning campus libraries in the US. Plus, a favourite among design students seeking visually rich beautiful libraries in universities.
9. University of Coimbra Library – Portugal
This baroque landmark is filled with gold detailing, ornate woodwork, and richly painted ceilings. Recognised globally as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, it attracts architecture enthusiasts and students alike who appreciate historically preserved famous university libraries.
10. LSE Library – London School of Economics, UK
If you are looking for someplace bright, modern, and clean, the LSE library is the one for you. Known for its iconic spiral staircases, it stands out among contemporary iconic college libraries. It has spacious interiors. It has natural lighting. And it is minimalistic. All the things that make it one of the most instagrammable libraries in the world.
What these Instagrammable spaces tell you about a university
A library might not be the only reason you choose a university, but it does reveal essential things:
- It signals investment in student wellbeing, learning culture, and modern facilities.
- Beautiful architectural design often reflects strong infrastructure and thoughtful renovation.
But remember: Academic fit, outcomes, and affordability always matter far more.
At GradRight, we help students look beyond the surface. Our university matching and loan comparison tools use real data to find universities that fit your aspirations, budget, and profile. With partnerships with top global unis and banks/lenders, our aim is to democratize global education access for Indian students.
One of our students, Tore Stole, shared this about working with us:
“My experience with GradRight Inc. was excellent! The team was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, providing me with valuable insights and guidance. The website was easy to navigate, and their services were of the highest quality. I couldn’t be happier with the assistance I received!”
Look for beauty, pick for the right fit
As you explore study abroad options, make sure you admire beautiful campuses, enjoy the photographs, and save your favourites. But don’t pick a university for Instagram alone. The right university is the one where you thrive academically, financially, and personally.
If you want help comparing programs, universities, or education loan options, GradRight is designed to make every step easier. Write to us and we’d be happy to walk by your side, guiding you at every step in your study abroad journey.
