There’s something magical about a library. The smell of old books, the quiet hum of people reading, and the endless shelves of stories just waiting to be explored. Libraries are places of adventure, mystery, and sometimes even a little romance. They’re also a refuge—somewhere people go to learn, to escape, or to find a sense of belonging. So, it’s no surprise that libraries make the perfect setting for some unforgettable books and movies.
Books You’ll Love:
1. The Library Book by Susan Orlean
If you love nonfiction that reads like a novel, this book is for you. Orlean dives into the fascinating story of the 1986 fire that devastated the Los Angeles Public Library, destroying hundreds of thousands of books. But this book isn’t just about the fire—it’s also a love letter to libraries, their history, and the vital role they play in communities.
2. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Imagine a library where every book represents a different life you could have lived. That’s the premise of this thought-provoking novel. When Nora, the main character, finds herself in a mysterious in-between space, she gets the chance to explore the many paths her life could have taken. It’s a touching story about regret, second chances, and finding meaning in the life you already have.
3. The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins
For those who enjoy dark fantasy with a dose of the bizarre, this book is a must-read. It follows a group of orphans raised by a mysterious father figure who teaches them supernatural knowledge stored in a strange and powerful library. Part horror, part fantasy, part thriller—this book is a wild ride from start to finish.
4. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
While not set in a traditional public library, this novel revolves around the “Cemetery of Forgotten Books,” a secret library hidden in Barcelona. This atmospheric mystery follows a young boy who discovers a rare book and is drawn into a web of secrets, forbidden love, and literary intrigue.
5. The Strange Library by Haruki Murakami
This eerie novella from Murakami tells the surreal story of a boy who is lured into a library’s hidden labyrinth by a sinister old man. What follows is a dreamlike, unsettling adventure that plays with reality, memory, and the power of stories. Short but haunting, this book is perfect for fans of Murakami’s signature blend of the bizarre and the philosophical.
Movies to Watch:
1. The Public (2018)
This underrated gem is a must-watch for library lovers. Set in Cincinnati, it tells the story of a group of unhoused patrons who refuse to leave the library during a brutal winter storm, sparking a tense standoff with police. It’s a powerful film that highlights the role of libraries as more than just places for books—they’re also crucial community spaces.
2. The Name of the Rose (1986)
Based on Umberto Eco’s novel, this medieval mystery-thriller starring Sean Connery takes place in a monastery with a labyrinthine library full of hidden secrets. A murder mystery unfolds as a Franciscan friar investigates strange deaths, leading to a suspenseful exploration of forbidden knowledge, power, and censorship.
3. Desk Set (1957)
A charming rom-com starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, set in a corporate research library. The story follows a team of brilliant librarians who worry their jobs are at risk when an efficiency expert (Tracy) brings in a new computer. It’s a delightful, witty film that perfectly captures the charm of pre-digital libraries.
4. National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets (2007)
Okay, this one isn’t entirely set in a library, but it features one of the most famous libraries in the world: the Library of Congress. This action-packed adventure starring Nicolas Cage follows a hunt for hidden historical secrets, with a memorable scene inside the library’s archives.
5. Party Girl (1995)
A cult classic starring Parker Posey as Mary, a New York City party girl who unexpectedly finds herself working at a public library. At first, she’s only in it for the paycheck, but as she learns the Dewey Decimal System and discovers a passion for books, she starts to turn her chaotic life around. Funny, stylish, and full of ‘90s energy, Party Girl is a love letter to librarians everywhere.
Why We Love Library Stories
Whether it’s in books or movies, libraries always add an extra layer of mystery, nostalgia, and wonder to a story. They represent endless possibilities—new worlds, fresh starts, and sometimes, life-changing discoveries. If you’re a book lover, chances are you have fond memories of spending time in a library, getting lost in stories, or even making unexpected connections.
Do you have a favorite book or movie set in a library? Drop your recommendations in the comments—we’d love to add more to our list!
If you have questions or need any assistance, please contact the reference desk at [email protected] or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.