When I was 16, I thought my biggest dream was to have a beautiful walk-in closet, something like Carrie Bradshaw’s or Mia Thermopolis’s. But now, as I approach 30, I can confidently say that my ultimate aspiration is to have a large library, organized my way and custom-built for all my books. For now, three Ikea bookshelves in my room will do (even though they’re starting to overflow due to my reading addiction), and I dream of the day when my Pinterest boards dedicated to libraries become reality.
In the meantime, I find “comfort” by rewatching some of my favorite comfort movies, which have stuck with me partly because of the beautiful libraries featured in them. These book-filled spaces, keepers of knowledge, either play a crucial role in the movie’s plot or simply serve as a stunning backdrop that enriches the storytelling and fuels our dreams. So, if you’re looking for me, I’ll probably be in one of the following libraries—or at least, I wish that’s where your emails could find me…
“National Treasure” (2004) & “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” (2007)
A perfect 10/10 duology (I will not accept criticism on this), these movies follow treasure hunter Benjamin Gates as he searches for the truth behind some of America’s greatest historical mysteries. In both films, Benjamin finds himself inside the stunning Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., whether he’s conducting research or tracking down the legendary President’s Book of Secrets. A mix of action and historical nerdiness—how could you not love it?
“Beauty and the Beast” (1991)
You can keep your bad boys who promise you the world—I’d rather have the Beast and his magnificent library. Filled with books of every kind, well-organized, and bathed in light, it remains every book lover’s dream. While its real-life inspiration is actually visitable (we’re talking about the Abbey of St. Florian in Austria), the idea of having it all to yourself is what makes it truly magical. And if it happens to be gifted by a loved one? Even better.
“Harry Potter” (2001-2011)
“Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home”—and what kind of home would it be without a well-stocked, magical library? First seen in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone when Hermione casually finds information about the Philosopher’s Stone in some “light reading,” the library reappears throughout the saga, complete with its infamous Restricted Section. It’s the perfect place to relax, study, and revisit over and over again. Plus, it’s inspired by real locations (such as Livraria Lello in Porto and the Bodleian Library in Oxford)—absolute perfection.
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961)
Chosen by Paul as a spot to show Holly the “daytime” side of New York, the New York Public Library is one of the world’s most famous and enchanting libraries. It’s also the place where Paul finds Holly and spontaneously (but not very successfully) confesses his love. Many people associate this library with other films like Ghostbusters, The Day After Tomorrow, and Spider-Man, but as someone who considers Breakfast at Tiffany’s one of their all-time favorites, my mind will always go there first.
“Inkheart” (2008)
Maybe I’m biased because I love the book this movie is based on, but I truly don’t understand why it’s so underrated. Sure, it’s not a box-office giant, but it’s a sweet story with a fantastic cast that deserves more love. Especially if you’re a book lover, since the plot revolves around books, antique bookstores, and mesmerizing personal libraries—like that of Elinor Loredan. A movie based on a book, about books, for book lovers: trust me, give it a chance!
“Agora” (2009)
Setting aside the debates surrounding the historical accuracy of this film and the life of philosopher and scientist Hypatia, Agora lets us dream about what an incredible temple of knowledge the Library of Alexandria must have been. A unique center of culture and learning, tragically lost to history, this library remains the ultimate what-if. If your Roman Empire is fantasizing about uncovering the lost knowledge of this magical place, this is the movie for you.
“The Book Thief” (2013)
Young Liesel Meminger is introduced to the world of books and their importance against the backdrop of Nazi Germany, where horror and the shadow of Death loom over everything. Thanks to her access to the Hermanns’ library, Liesel broadens her horizons and discovers the power of reading—something that will serve as both a refuge and a constant throughout her life. A deeply moving film that highlights the importance of knowledge, always and everywhere.
“Angels & Demons” (2009)
In this sequel to The Da Vinci Code, symbology professor Robert Langdon is once again racing against time, this time to save kidnapped cardinals and the Catholic Church itself. As he searches for clues around Rome to uncover the mysteries of the past and the secret society of the Illuminati, Langdon finds himself inside the Vatican Apostolic Archive (cue my envious sigh). With 85 kilometers of shelves filled with priceless historical and religious documents, this place is the ultimate forbidden dream for many—including me, in case that wasn’t clear.
“I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” (2018)
The school library plays a crucial role in this beloved anime. It’s here that protagonists Haruki and Sakura first meet, getting to know each other and setting off a series of (tragic) events that intertwine their lives. Through Haruki, we discover the significance of libraries and librarians in Japanese culture, reminding us just how beautiful and vital reading is—while also emphasizing the importance of life itself.
“Wicked” (2024)
If the Dancing Through Life sequence hasn’t been playing on a loop in your mind since the moment you saw this film, then we can’t be friends. Beyond the rebellious charm of Prince Fiyero trying to lead his classmates astray, what truly stands out is the set design—especially the rotating library of Shiz University. A place of knowledge and magic so beautiful that we can even forgive Fiyero for walking on the tables (yes, with books on them!).
What do you think?