If you’ve spent most of your life with your nose buried in a book, a library is the perfect place to tie the knot. This way, you can honour your love of reading without making it a wedding theme that you may deem tacky in a few decades.
There are beautiful libraries across the globe that also double as wedding venues. Here are a few of our favourites.
Centre for the Book – Cape Town
The Centre for the Book in Cape Town city centre has a mission is to promote a culture of reading, writing and publishing in local languages. The library is dedicated to providing book publishing information and advice as well as advocating for, and promoting the culture of, reading, writing and publishing in South Africa.
The building has a stunning domes strium for the central reading room, and a hall that is perfect for receptions.
George Peabody Library – Baltimore
Opened in 1878, this library is widely recognised as one of the most beautiful library spaces in the world. It was designed by Baltimore architect Edmund G. Lind, in collaboration with the Peabody Institute’s first provost, Dr. Nathaniel H. Morison.
Six tiers of stately cast-iron columns and ornate railings embellished with gold leaf encircle the Reading Room, creating an ambiance that is both enchanting and scholarly. Filled with over 300,000 volumes of books, the Library creates a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions, providing each with a timeless and storied setting to create your personal memories.
The New York Public Library – New York
Founded in 1895, the New York Public Library is an historic institution and highly sought-after wedding venue. It was even featured in the Sex and the City movie as the place where Carrie got stood up on her wedding day.
The Library’s landmark Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a quintessential New York City icon. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this magnificent Beaux-Arts building caters to intimate gatherings and lavish extravaganzas, lending a sense of grandeur and distinction to any occasion.
Chawton House Library – Hampshire
This stunning restored Elizabethan library located just outside of London was once owned by Jane Austen’s brother. The famous author would often visit the location, and would refer to it as the ‘Great House’ in her letters.
Licensed for civil ceremonies, Chawton House is one of the most unique wedding venues in the UK. As you sweep up the imposing drive, Chawton House welcomes you into an era of elegance, grace and wit. Follow in Jane Austen’s footsteps by dining in the Oak Room, dancing in the Great Hall or strolling across the South Lawn to a classic marquee with your own Mr Darcy or Miss Bennet.
The Signet Library – Edinburgh, Scotland
The Signet Library, situated in the very heart of Edinburgh, Scotland and just a stone’s throw from St Giles Cathedral, is the unique wedding venue of choice for brides and grooms who are searching for a magical combination of breathtaking setting, gorgeous design and details.
There are several rooms to accommodate nuptials of any scale. The Lower Library is perfect for a drinks and canapés reception. The Upper Library can accommodate 50-220 guests for any type of reception from a wedding breakfast to an evening affair.
The Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missouri
What makes this venue truly unique is its giant display of books outside the library, which makes for the perfect backdrop for book-lovers.
The Central Library offers Kansas City’s smartest wedding venue that will make your day truly special. Simply choose from one of their unique space options that will wow and energise all of your guests. Ceremony rentals include the space, setup/teardown, furniture, bridal/groomsmen dressing rooms, and a rehearsal time.
West Dean College – West Sussex
With award-winning gardens and a gorgeous backdrop, West Dean College and Gardens in West Sussex is the perfect venue for a wedding reception. The unique historic character and beautiful surroundings create a perfect venue set in the picturesque South Downs countryside.
Be wined and dined in the Old Library, Music Room or Old Dining Room or, for larger celebrations, all three rooms are interconnecting. Dinners can be arranged for 10-90 guests. Glittering chandeliers and walls graced with original artwork provide a warm and elegant space with sense of occasion.
The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles
California’s largest new and used book and record store was featured in Flavorwire’s list of The 20 Most Beautiful Bookstores In The World, so it must be something special. It features tunnels of books and tons of open space. This venue is perfect for intimate wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Feature image: Instagram
