LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Free Public Library’s (LFPL) main branch is turning heads across the nation.
Louisville’s downtown library, located on York Street, has been named one of the 20 most stunning libraries in the United State by sports and entertainment publication Yardbarker.
The article described Louisville’s main library branch as “gorgeous and palatial.”
“Its outside is stunning, but its inside is absolutely spectacular, boasting beautiful staircases with ornate railings and striking white marble columns and floors,” it continued.
Louisville’s library was ranked among the Library of Congress, the New York Public Library, and the Indianapolis Central Library.
LFPL officials estimate more than 400,000 people visit the main branch every year.
The downtown branch is currently undergoing an $11.1 million renovation, which is expected to be completed next fall.
“The aging library needs to reflect its role as one of the busiest libraries in the state,” officials said. “Established in 1906, the original design of the grand Carnegie Library presents significant accessibility challenges. Large portions of the building remain unusable, including the entire third floor, which closed in 2019 due to budget cuts.”
The renovations will bring several improvements, including transforming the first floor into meeting rooms, rotating displays, and a space for podcast and music creators.
The third floor will also be reopened with an enhanced Kentucky History Room, the library’s book collection and study rooms.
Several other LFPL branches are also undergoing multimillion-dollar renovations as well.
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