London: British Library

[Music: Human Aura (Massano Remix)]

Oh! I never did write that initial post on the British Library. In my mind, I keep thinking that I did because when I walked by that first time, it left such a strong impression. Since 2019, I have returned to London time and time again, but somehow have not been able to make the stop. Finally, on my layover back from Ibiza this year, I woke up early to go to the library before needing to head to Heathrow back home. I think that sums up a lot right there- real commitment. Worth it? 100% – and I can’t wait to go back.

I could feel myself thinking in this building- as if encouraged, surrounded by so much thought captured between these walls. It’s lovely that humanity has dedicated great architecture to it’s defining differentiator within the animal kingdom- the art of critical thought.

Red brick has a defining character to it- when I come across it in a newer built city like San Francisco (or one that has been rebuilt due to earthquake) it’s always reminiscent of the east coast for me. This building is no short of majestic – the large planes of uninterrupted brick. In fact, from the outside, the building doesn’t seem like it would be a great place to hang out inside of.

London and Copenhagen are both pretty cloudy, terrible weather spots- how they consider interiors I believe would be important to both. Maybe because Copenhagen has so much new construction, they can lean on glass and technologies to create immense spaces. What I love about the British Library is that it’s so open- seemingly at odds with the possibilities of older building materials.

I only got to spend 25 minutes in this place. I wandered around as much as I could, seeking out all the small moments desperate to absorb as much of this place as I could. How do I find the excuse to spend hours and hours in this place? Take leave and write a book?

Address: 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom

Website: The Guardian “British Library awarded Grade I-listed building status”