Libraries, Oshawa

The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square-foot experience where you’ll discover the life and legacy of America’s Pastor. Designed to reflect Billy Graham’s journey from a humble farm boy to an international ambassador of God’s love, the barn-shaped building is situated on 20 landscaped acres, only miles from where Billy Graham grew up in Charlotte, N.C. The tour begins and ends with multimedia presentations, the first to lay a foundation for what guests will encounter in the exhibits and, at the end, another to consider the same call Billy Graham has extended to millions of others in 185 countries. The Billy Graham Library is not a memorial, nor is it a museum. The Billy Graham Library is a ministry, prayerfully planned with the intention of communicating the unchanging, life-giving message of Jesus Christ to hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who may never attend a Crusade. https://billygrahamlibrary.org/

The Central Library appeals to not only bibliophiles but also serves as a community meeting space, a place to grab coffee and a theatre for live readings, music and films. Also the Halifax Central Library is a leader in sustainability, aiming to achieve the gold level LEED certification. The green roof is perhaps one of the most noticeable sustainable features, aiding in the harvesting of rainwater for use in the flush fixtures throughout the building. Behind the scenes, “at a minimum, 50% of all wood used in the construction of the library is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council as sustainably grown and harvested.” While the library space itself is beautiful, the inside of the building has a hard time competing with the views of the city. Head up to the fourth floor (maybe grab a Pavia coffee and cookie while you’re up there?) and check out the panoramic views of the city. http://www.halifaxsociable.ca/5-reasons-halifax-central-library/

The Museum of the Jimmy Carter Library provides a unique experience for the visitor. Through immersive exhibitions of objects, documents, and photographs, videos, and beautiful gifts from world leaders, visitors can get a close-up view of the modern American Presidency. Highlights include a life-size replica of the Oval Office, a dramatic “Day in the Life of the President” presentation on 13 ft. screens, a walk-through cabin setting for the crucial Camp David Meetings exhibition, and an Interactive Map Table that takes you with the Carters to monitor elections and fight diseases. The Presidential Library is nestled between two lakes on 30 acres of parkland and provides a tranquil setting with a view of the Atlanta skyline. Changing exhibits are drawn from the library and museum collection or are based on themes relating to the presidency and American history. https://www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov/museum/

The MacKenzie Art Gallery is Saskatchewan’s largest public art gallery. A legacy of Norman MacKenzie K. C. (1869 – 1936), the MacKenzie art gallery was first opened in 1953 at the Regina campus of the University of Saskatchewan. The Gallery holds rotating exhibitions throughout the year in a variety of art styles on par with the best art galleries in North America. The art studio behind the gift shop is a great place for children to explore their creativity. Visitors can also enjoy a breadth of fresh air with the ‘Outdoor Sculpture Garden Self-Guided Walking Tour’. Visitors on Sunday can enjoy ‘Studio Sunday’, a family friendly event where families can explore the exhibitions through family-focused tours, hands on art-making, and special Sunday events with storytelling and special guest artists. https://www.todocanada.ca/city/regina/listing/mackenzie-art-gallery/

A world-class center for Hispanic arts and culture featuring an art museum, a state-of-the-art performing arts complex, a library and genealogy center, a restaurant and gift shop. Enjoy art exhibitions throughout the year and celebrate Hispanic traditions through various festivals and celebrations including Cinco de Mayo and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). The Center’s facilities are also available throughout the year for private and corporate events. The NHCC is part of the Department of Cultural Affairs. https://www.visitalbuquerque.org/listing/national-hispanic-cultural-center/1094/

Tucked away in Santiago de Cuba, the Abel Santamaría Historic Park is a fascinating blend of history and culture. This site includes a museum, a library, and a striking monument, all nestled among the ruins of the former Saturnino Lora Civil Hospital. Constructed in the late 19th century, the building showcases a Neoclassical style and holds a significant place in Cuban history. In 1953, 23 young revolutionaries led by Abel Santamaría seized this strategic location due to its proximity to the Cuartel Moncada Headquarters. The museum, opened in 1973 to mark the 20th anniversary of the Cuartel Moncada assault, offers an intriguing glimpse into this pivotal event. It highlights the assault, the subsequent trials, and Fidel Castro's role in shaping Cuba's future. The monument, unveiled in 1979, honors Abel Santamaría and his brave comrades who faced torture and death after the uprising's failure. It features four faces: a sphinx of José Martí, a likeness of Abel Santamaría, six bayonets symbolizing justice, the solitary star, and a verse from the National Anthem. The water curtain that appears to uphold the structure serves as a symbol of the ideals held by the Centenary Generation's youth. The Municipal Library, part of this complex, is a treasure trove for book lovers. It offers a general literature room, a space for young children, a library extension department, and a technical processes section. Beyond the books, the library hosts community events and workshops, making it a lively hub of learning and cultural exchange. As you wander through this historic park, you can almost feel the echoes of the past mingling with the vibrant life of today, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Alaska State Museum in the Andrew P. Kashevaroff Building is one of the easiest ways to experience the history, art and culture of the many diverse regions of Alaska. Seasonally changing fine art and historic exhibits augment large, world-class permanent exhibits about the history, art, and cultures of Alaska. Also stop in the historical research center of the State Library and Archives, store, and small café. https://www.traveljuneau.com/listing/alaska-state-museum/43624/

Nestled in the heart of Brussels, the Horta Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of renowned architect Victor Horta. This museum, which was once Horta's private home and studio, stands as a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture. Constructed between 1898 and 1901, the buildings are a testament to this artistic movement at its zenith. As you wander through the museum, you'll be treated to an array of exquisite interior decorations. From intricate mosaics and vibrant stained-glass windows to elegant furniture and captivating murals, every corner of the house exudes elegance and sophistication. It's like stepping back in time to an era where every detail was crafted with care and precision. But the Horta Museum offers more than just visual delight. It's also a hub for those interested in learning more about Victor Horta and the Art Nouveau style. The museum houses the architect's personal archives, an impressive collection of blueprints, and a well-stocked library. Visitors can explore these resources by arranging access, making it a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. When you visit, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the unique ironwork and the fluid, organic forms that characterize Horta's designs. These elements, combined with the home's innovative use of natural light, create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. The museum is not just a place to observe art; it's a space to feel inspired by the creativity and vision of one of history's great architects.

The cathedral "Notre-Dame" of Luxembourg was built between 1613 and 1621 by the Jesuits to serve as a church to their college (now the National Library). The north gate is characteristic of the semi-Renaissance, semi-Baroque style of the period. Since 1794, it has housed the statue of the Consoler of the Afflicted. A cathedral church in 1870, it was enlarged from 1935 to 1938. The choir screen in richly sculpted alabaster, columns decorated with arabesques, stained glass from the 19th and 20th centuries, neo-Gothic confessionals, modern sculptures in bas relief, bronze gates by Auguste Trémont, are all worthy of this splendid sanctuary. The crypt is the resting place of John the Blind, King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg, as well as deceased members of the Grand Ducal family; the two lions flanking the entrance are also the work of Auguste Trémont. https://www.visitluxembourg.com/en/place/misc/cathedrale-notre-dame

Mehrerau Abbey is one of the most important Cistercian abbeys in the Lake Constance region. Its history stretches back to the 11th century. Its magnificent location beside Lake Constance, the impressive library and its beautiful inner courtyard are most inviting. In addition, the abbey cellar, where specialities of the abbey’s own agricultural production are offered, ensures moments of culinary delight. https://www.bregenz.travel/en/tourism/experience/tourist-attractions/churches-in-bregenz/mehrerau-abbey/

The Senate Square and its surroundings form a unique and cohesive example of Neoclassical architecture. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel (1778-1840): Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland. A statue of Alexander II (1894) stands in the middle of the Senate Square. Helsinki Cathedral is arguably Finland's most famous and photographed building. The oldest stone building in Helsinki is the Sederholm House located on the southeast corner of the square. Today the building hosts the Helsinki City Museum. The Esplanade park and the Market Square are just a block away. The Senate Square also hosts a sound installation called the Sound of the Senate Square. It is a modern version of the European glockenspiel and can be heard every day at 17:49 as it travels from one building to the next. The composition runs for 5 minutes 18 seconds and is composed by Harri Viitanen and Jyrki Alakuijala. https://www.myhelsinki.fi/en/see-and-do/sights/senate-square

Solidarności Square - the impressive rusty block resembles a ship’s hull. This characteristic expressive building covered with corten steel dominates the landscape of the former shipyard terrain. The European Solidarity Centre (ESC) is important institution on the freedom trail in a new, experimental form: it is not only a museum dedicated to the history of Solidarity and anti communist opposition in Poland and Europe, but also a centre of dialog in the modern world; a meeting place for people who are close to the values of liberty and democracy. The heart of ESC is a grand exhibition arranged which narrative allows everyone to find their own meaning and emotions. Visitors from Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Germany also find their piece of history in the centre. But ESC is also a library, reading room and archives. It is a centre for research, education and training as well as creative workshops for young people. There is also a place for younger visitors - the Playroom Department is a multimedia educational room for children. http://visitgdansk.com/en/hity-gdanska/European-Solidarity-Centre,a,3480

It is located on the promontory of the historical peninsula in İstanbul which overlooks both the Marmara Sea and the İstanbul strait. The walls enclosing the palace grounds, the main gate on the land side and the first buildings were constructed during the time of Fatih Sultan Mehmet (the Conqueror) (1451 - 81). The palace has taken its present layout with the addition of new structures in the later centuries. Topkapı Palace was the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans, starting with Fatih Sultan Mehmet until 1856, when Abdülmecid moved to the Dolmabahçe Palace, functioned as the administrative centre of the state. The Enderun section also gained importance as a school. Topkapı Palace was converted to a museum in 1924. Parts of the Palace such as the Harem, Baghdad Pavilion, Revan Pavilion, Sofa Pavilion, and the Audience Chamber distinguish themselves with their architectural assets, while in other sections artefacts are displayed which reflect the palace life. The museum also has collections from various donations and a library.https://muze.gen.tr/muze-detay/topkapi

Nestled in the heart of Agia Kyriaki Square, the Municipal Library of Mykonos is a gem waiting to be discovered. Housed in a stunning old mansion once owned by the Mavrogenis family, this 1735 building whispers tales of a bygone era. Step inside, and you'll find yourself surrounded by nearly 6,000 volumes spanning literature, history, and more. Most of these treasures are in Greek, but the atmosphere alone is enough to captivate any visitor. As you wander through, you'll also encounter fascinating photographs, Cycladic coins, and ancient seals that paint a vivid picture of the island's rich heritage. The library's impressive collection owes much to Ioannis Meletopoulos, a Mykonian historian who generously donated books from his personal library. Other islanders followed suit, contributing not only books but also black and white sketches capturing iconic landmarks of Mykonos. Though the library no longer operates in the traditional sense, it stands as a proud symbol of the island's vibrant history. Today, parts of this historic building have been lovingly renovated and transformed into museums, with the Bonis Windmill being a standout attraction. Each exhibit offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Mykonians from centuries past. A visit to this charming library is a journey through time, one that promises to enrich your understanding of Mykonos and leave you with lasting memories. So, if you find yourself wandering the cobblestone streets of Mykonos, make sure to carve out some time to explore this treasure trove of history.

The Adler Museum of Medicine preserves the history of the health sciences in Southern Africa, with special reference to Gauteng. It supplements the educational activities of the University, especially the Health Sciences, by means of collections, research, teaching, exhibitions and publications. The Museum contains interesting and invaluable collections depicting the history of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy through the ages. Apart from the hundreds of items of medical historical interest on display, there are also documents, sculptures, pictures, videos and philatelic and medallion collections relating to medical history as well as the history of allied health sciences. The Museum has a library of rare books and a significant history of medicine reference library. In addition, a rich archive arranged by subject matter is housed in the library, and biographical information relating to thousands of medical and allied health professionals is available to students, researchers and interested members of the public. https://www.wits.ac.za/health/adlermuseum/

Wat Saket in Bangkok Old Town is an Ayutthaya-era shrine with a gleaming gold chedi in Bangkok. Also called the Golden Mount, it occupies an 80-metre-tall man made hill that was built during the reign of King Rama III. The temple welcomes worshippers year-round, though it’s busiest during its annual temple fair in November, during Loy Krathong. The temple grounds have mature trees and typical Buddhist structures such as a main prayer hall, ordination hall and library. Wat Saket was the capital's crematorium and the dumping ground for some 60,000 plague victims in the late-18th century. At the base of the Golden Mount, you’ll find an unusual cemetery covered in vines and overgrown trees. It emits a rather spooky out-of-era vibe. Once you arrive at the top of Wat Saket, you’ll be surrounded by a wall of bells and panoramas of Bangkok Old Town. http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-temple/wat-saket.htm