Libraries Are For Lovers: How to Throw the Perfect Library-Themed Wedding
Houston Public Library's historic Julia Ideson Building, which can accommodate weddings and events with up to 350 guests, features reflective Spanish-brick floors, a Tudor Gallery surrounded by large marble pillars, a reading room with its original, 1920s-era wooden fixtures, and stunning gold and vibrant colored wood flowers on the ceiling.
If you’re a “Sex and the City” fan, you may well remember the moment heroine Carrie Bradshaw walks into the spectacular and iconic New York City Public Library and has the revelation that the historic, art-filled building with its sweeping staircase was the must-have romantic setting for her upcoming nuptials. And even though Carrie’s dream wedding didn’t come to fruition, she may have been on to something.
Libraries hold a special place in many hearts. Oftentimes people describe libraries as a place of solace and calm, a place to be comfortable with a book, or just a quiet space to spend a leisurely afternoon. What’s more, many folks have happy childhood memories of being taken to libraries for their first library card, for storytime and craft events when they were children, or they have recollections of participation in summer reading programs.
From Bookworms to Newlyweds
If you or your intended have any special connection to your local library, share a love of reading, or are lucky enough to live near a beautiful space like the NYC Library or the historic Julia Ideson Library in Houston—known for its elegant Spanish architecture, artwork, and gorgeous gold ceilings—taking your vows among the stacks might be a good option for you.
In fact, the United States boasts several choices for dreamy library weddings, including the Boston Public Library and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, which are both in Boston; Housing Works Bookstore in New York City; Seattle Public Library; the Douglas County Library in Douglas County, Colorado; the George Peabody Library in Baltimore, Maryland; the Richard Nixon Library Foundation in Orange County, and the Indianapolis Public Library.
Like museums that serve as wedding venues, each of these library spaces offers their own unique charm and singular ambiance for anyone’s special day. Many are historic in nature and boast beautiful facilities; several of them offer sweeping views of their locales, be it seaside or lush flower gardens.
If none of the examples listed here are realistic options for you, but you still dream of being married in a library setting, check out your local choices. You may be surprised to learn that your neighborhood library would be thrilled to host your nuptials; you may even be able to work with the library staff to transform the space for your wedding. Perhaps there is a garden on-site, a reading room that you can decorate and tailor to your taste, or even an outdoor reading area where you can stage a beautiful outdoor affair. Whatever the circumstance, don’t be afraid to think creatively to make your dreams come true!
Drawing Theme Inspiration from Your Library Venue
If you really want to up the ante on your wedding by not only getting married in a library but by going all-in on the book theme, there are several ways to make it happen.
Send out custom-made library cards as save-the-date reminders. You can also use this style for your bridal shower and wedding invitations.
Incorporate books into your centerpieces.
Have some of your favorite romantic poems printed out and displayed at some of the dinner place settings.
Invite your maid/matron of honor and best man to quote a love line from a favorite book during their toasts.
Offer bookmarks, or marriage-centered or love-themed books as party favors.
Hosting your wedding in a library is a unique choice that will ensure your wedding day is memorable, not just for you and your significant other, but for your guests as well.
If the idea speaks to you, go for it with gusto!