50 Of The Most Stunning And Impressive Bookstores And Libraries

"I found myself interested in librarianship when I worked as a reading teacher," librarian Dr. Karina Quilantan-Garza tells us.

"The schools I worked for did not employ full-time school librarians, and that made it difficult to promote a love of reading with my students. After speaking to a fellow colleague going through a school librarian program, she encouraged me to apply.

I've been a librarian for 10 years, and in that time, I have enjoyed connecting students with books they love, technology resources that enhance their productivity, and opportunities that showcase their creativity," she fondly shares.

Similarly, librarian William Ottens was intrigued by the prospect of becoming a teacher but changed his mind when he realized there was an increasing focus on standardized testing.

"I decided then that I wanted to work where people came to learn because they want to, not because they were required to. For me, that was a library. I really enjoy helping people learn and discover new ideas."

Both librarians agree that even amidst technological changes and digitization, the importance of libraries remains.

"Libraries are just as important as they've ever been, if not more. With inflation, it's costing more and more to just live, and libraries provide equitable access to information, education, and entertainment with no up-front cost to the user. Beyond the materials, services, and programs they provide, they're one of the only places you can go and exist and just be without the expectation to purchase something," says William.

"Libraries are culture shapers and catalysts that help society form its values, knowledge base, and sense of community," Dr. Karina adds.

"They provide free access to information, support lifelong learning, and promote literacy for people of all ages and backgrounds. They are spaces of refuge for people who need a place to belong."

That said, libraries have to put a lot of effort into remaining relevant and helpful in the modern age.

"In a time when misinformation is widespread, libraries are the first stop for finding accurate information. Beyond books, libraries have positioned themselves as innovative hubs for learning by acquiring modern and emerging technologies. Many now offer access to e-books, online databases, virtual classes, and even makerspaces with tools like 3D printers and coding software," explains Dr. Karina.

"They also help bridge the digital divide by providing internet access and digital literacy training for those who need it most. As society becomes more reliant on technology, libraries will remain essential—not just as places for reading and research, but as inclusive, adaptable centers for education, innovation, and community connection."

"The relevance of libraries has been questioned since the dawn of the Internet. While books and materials are at the center of what libraries are and have been, it's really about access to reliable, accurate information and resources," William agrees.

"Libraries are places where people connect with each other, learn, and improve their lives. As long as there's a need for that, libraries will remain essential."

Lastly, we couldn't let these librarians go without asking about their favorite library and if they have one they dream of visiting.

"I love libraries of all shapes and sizes and visit them wherever I go. I'd give a shout out to the Kansas City (Missouri) Public Library's Central Library, the St. Louis Public Library Central Branch, the Chicago Public Library's Harold Washington Central Library, and the Seattle Public Library's Central Library as must-see large libraries," William suggests.

"On a smaller scale, the Lawrence (Kansas Public Library), the Mid-Continent Public Library's Green Hills Library, and the Basehor Community Library (where I work) are just as neat!"

Dr. Karina's dream would be to visit the Library of Alexandria, if it still existed, that is.

"I dream of visiting ancient libraries to learn about ancient traditions, cultures, and history. Imagine all the things we could have learned if it still stood."