Los Angeles Central Library

As the third largest public library in the United States with a collection of nearly 6.5 million, the original Los Angeles Central Library personifies the quest for knowledge. Designed by famous architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue, this downtown Los Angeles landmark mimics the architecture of ancient Egypt, with a large central tower topped by a mosaic pyramid decorated with suns on both sides and a hand holding a torch. Other Egyptian architectural elements that are scattered throughout the impressive structure include the use of sphinx and snake sculptures and elaborate celestial mosaics.

Above the library's main lobby soars an intricately-painted vaulted ceiling featuring bright colors and stark contrasts. In 1988, the city added an enormous eight-story atrium, in dedication to former mayor Tom Bradley. Strung across the massive atrium are chandeliers and 13-foot tall lanterns gracefully hanging from the high ceiling. On the second floor, the walls of the expansive Lodwrick M. Cook rotunda showcase a four-part mural by illustrator Dean Cornwell depicting the history of California. A 2,000 pound cast-bronze chandelier hangs from the ceiling as an impressive centerpiece.

The Los Angeles Central Library contains holdings on a wide variety of subjects including Art, Music & Recreation, Business & Economics, Children's Literature, Literature & Fiction, Rare Books, Science, Technology & Patents, and Teen'Scape, its young adult section. The library also features a technologically advanced computer center in the Lower Level Three Atrium of the Tom Bradley Wing. Inside the computer center are 55 one-hour internet stations and eight 15-minute internet stations open to the public. Wireless internet is also available free-of-charge to all visitors who bring in their computer from home or work.

- Cody Kirch