Fodors, the renowned travel guide company, recently listed the Main Branch of the Louisville Free Public Library to its list 11 Most Beautiful Libraries in the United States.
In the list, writer Molly OBrien wrote: Since its opening in 1908, the Louisville Free Public Library Main Branch has been considered one of Kentuckys finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture. Visitors can gaze at the ornate stained glass works, the barrel-vaulted ceiling, the white marble columns, and the two grand staircases affixed with striking bronze and iron railings. Out front, theres a 13-foot bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln Kentuckys only native U.S. President.
During the great 1937 flood, much of this library was damaged when the Ohio River rose 30 feet above flood stage and enveloped 60% of the city. Today, this library stands stronger and taller than ever. In fact, it became the first U.S. library with its own FM radio station back in 1950 (today, its owned by Louisville Public Media, but those interested can still listen to the archived recordings).
The LFPL recently shared the news on their social media as well.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Louisville Free Public Library (@louisvillefreepubliclibrary)
The list also includes the Seattle Central Public Library, St. Louis Public Librarys Central Library, and Nashville Public Library.
You can visit the Main Library at 301 York Street from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
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This article appears in June 8, 2022.
