The Most Beautiful Libraries of the World by Guillaume de Laubier

Does anyone have this book ? I'm thinking of buying a copy but would like to know a bit more about the content before investing.

Sure do!
It's essentially a 'coffee table' book - quarto format, weighs slightly less than 5 pounds, glossy paper, beautiful photos of opulent libraries (mostly in Europe), and lots of detail photos.

I can't say that I've read many of the accompanying essays, but that's because the pictures are so distracting. It's one of those books that you need to wear a bib when you're looking at it. You won't be able to prevent yourself from drooling, so you may as well do what you need to in order to protect the book.

Thank you WholeHouseLibrary & TalulahBelle it's obviously a must have along with a good bib. Thought or hoped as much. Poor old bank balance going to take another bashing but in a good cause.

I've had that on my Amazon wish list for a while. Might be time to buy!

Yep, I have a copy. It's excellent -- though I tend to prefer Candida Hofer's Libraries because there's a greater breadth of library types and times.

Yes, buy it. You will cherish it. The photographs are rich in color and detail and the libraries depicted are simply beautiful. Heed Wholehouse Library's advice: wear a bib.
That book and another titled, At Home With Books are both visual delight.

>6 cornerhouse: Good point! Though I actually prefer this one to Candida Hofer's volume - I have both - particularly as a coffee table book, just because 'Beautiful Libraries' really celebrates the sumptuousness of libraries. Remember in 'Beauty and the Beast' (don't laugh, it's my favourite!), when Belle opens her eyes and sees that library for the first time? That's the look on my face when I read this book. The Candida Hofer book seemed to include things like... well, filing systems... I definitely don't need a coffee table book to see that!

I like the functionality of the libraries in Hofer's book. All of those rococo library interiors in Laubier's book make me gag. Chacun son gout!

Here's another beauty. The WSJ pays homage to the Morgan Library. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204652904577193161529753518.html
I know this is an old thread, but it was the only one I've stumbled across that seems relevant. Almost seems we need an entire group devoted to beautiful libraries and reading spaces. *Hint*Hint* Anyone?

There is...
http://www.librarything.com/groups/bookcasesifyoubuild

Have ordered 'THE LIBRARY; An Illustrated History' from www.finebooksmagazine.com. They have lots to read on their website.