This is a beginning to a series on great English libraries around the world. I will only ripoti on those that I have frequented. All are invited to participate with additional maktaba 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...

Unintentionally (by me) this third featured maktaba has managed to marry the modernity of Princeton Public maktaba with the traditional(ness) exhibited kwa 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 maktaba is no exception. T.B. Scott Library, a Wisconsin Register Landmark, opened its doors March 25, 1891, supported by...

Princeton Public Library of Princeton, New Jersey
While the link is a representation of the traditional library, the Princeton Public maktaba is an image of a modern library. Even as one walks kwa the maktaba it is instantly clear that it is 'modernity' reincarnate. Situated in the moyo of Princeton, NJ and is adjacent to the majestic Princeton chuo kikuu, chuo kikuu cha 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 kwa its cover" so as I walked in I was...

    The maktaba is the most beautiful place in the world. I’ve always wondered why children my age don’t like going, there’s always so much to see and know. It’s a place to stop and rest from all the roughness of the world; it is a labyrinth for the great thinker, who at any time can sit and rest and camp for the night, never knowing what turn to take tomorrow. We all need this escape from the rest of the world, and simply into our own mind.
    There is simply no better way to find the entrance to that escape than kwa starting with others. There...