One Minnesota library that no book lover should overlook is George Latimer Central Library, the crown jewel of the St. Paul Public Library system. Located in downtown St. Paul, this library serves as the system’s main branch.
Construction began on St. Paul’s Central Library in 1915. Later, in 1917, it finally opened its doors to the public in 1917.
The building is renowned for its Italian Renaissance revival architecture. Pink Tennessee marble sheathes the building’s exterior.
The library was named for George Latimer, a beloved mayor of St. Paul and champion of its library system in 2014.
He later served as dean of Hamline University’s Law School (now Mitchell Hamline School of Law) and as a director in the Department of Housing and Urban Development during the Clinton administration.
The library’s interior architectural details echo the exterior’s ornate style.
Notwithstanding its gorgeous architecture, the building IS a library, and books are the main attraction.
In addition to its physical and electronic holdings, which are available across the system’s 12 branches, St. Paul Public Library boasts more than 400,000 primary source documents - thrilling researchers and bibliophiles.
The Mankato granite interior is a joy to explore.
The curved staircases lead from room to room.
The library boasts several specialized reading rooms for its various collections.
It’s a perfect place to sit and while away an afternoon.
During warm weather, take advantage of the library’s Rice Park location and enjoy a book in the fresh air.
Have you visited the George Latimer Central Library in St. Paul? Do you know another Minnesota library that book lovers should not miss?
While you're in the city, be sure to go for a walk and take advantage of all the outdoor spaces - you'll see why St. Paul is considered one of the healthiest cities in the country. Be sure to stroll through Rice Park, perhaps grab lunch at the venerable St. Paul Grill, and visit the nearby Science Museum of Minnesota.
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