Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore

The George Peabody Library is a remarkable research library housed in a remarkable building designed by noted architect Edmund Lind. Begun in 1860, the library collection contains over 300,000 volumes largely from the 18th and 19th centuries. Its most impressive feature is its large central reading room, rising to the full height of the building under a skylight and flanked by alcoves six stories high in elaborate cast-iron construction. Not only is the library a beautiful place to admire, but it is also a quiet study space.