So many books and so little time! I haven't spent as much time at the library this year as last year when I really picked up reading again, but I think libraries can be such a nice, calming place. And I mean any library. There are some in Minnesota, though, that are just stunning and look like their straight out of the movies.

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I hadn't read much for fun since I was in grade school until last year. I tried out a reading challenge where I read a new book each month. I wasn't 100% successful but I can guarantee I read way more books last year than if I didn't start that challenge. It brought me back to the library and I found some really incredible books along the way.

While your local library might not be anything to write home about looks-wise, there are actually a few around Minnesota that look like they could be in Hogwarts or part of Beauty and the Beast.

James J. Hill Center Library - St. Paul

Hill Library Foundation
Hill Library Foundation
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First is the James J. Hill Center library in St. Paul.

It was built in 1916 and the way that the age of the building was preserved makes it look so awesome.

James J. Hill Center via YouTube
James J. Hill Center via YouTube
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Latimer Library - St. Paul

Saint Paul Public Library
Saint Paul Public Library
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Next we have the Latimer Library in downtown St. Paul.

City of Saint Paul via YouTube
City of Saint Paul via YouTube
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It was built in 1917. I love the chandeliers and the high ceilings.

City of Saint Paul via YouTube
City of Saint Paul via YouTube
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Plummer Building Library - Rochester

Mayo Clinic Libraries
Mayo Clinic Libraries
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Then we've got the library in the Plummer Building in Rochester.

There are all sorts of resources and services available here. There are items only accessible by Mayo Clinic employees. Other items can be borrowed by the public.

Mayo Clinic Libraries
Mayo Clinic Libraries
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Walter Library - University of Minnesota Campus in Minneapolis

University of Minnesota Libraries
University of Minnesota Libraries
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University of Minnesota Libraries

Finally, we have the Walter Library on the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis. It's one of the largest libraries that the U of MN has on their campus.

University of Minnesota Libraries
University of Minnesota Libraries
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Honorary Mention: State Law Library - Des Moines, IA

Yes, this one isn't in Minnesota but I had to put it here as an honorary mention because look at this place!

State Library of Iowa
State Library of Iowa
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It's amazing!

State Library of Iowa
State Library of Iowa
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Feel Like Royalty When Your Stay in this Historic Castle Just 75 Minutes from Rochester

You're bound to feel like royalty when you stay at this bed and breakfast in La Crosse, Wisconsin called Castle La Crosse. It's about 75 minutes from Rochester, Minnesota and it's a historic castle that was built in 1892. It's been owned by a few families and a church but in 2017 it was transformed into a beautiful bed and breakfast.

Gallery Credit: Carly Ross

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