World’s Coolest Bookstores: Trinity Library (Dublin, Ireland)

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Ok, it's a library, not a bookstore--you wouldn't be able to afford these books anyway. While many of its 200,000 volumes are kept safe behind velvet ropes, the Old Library of Trinity College is home to some of the oldest books in Ireland, their ancient pages far too delicate for a hand’s touch. In addition to being able to walk through the library and explore Ireland’s complex literary history, visitors are actually allowed to read a handful of the books.

The library also provides visitors with an opportunity to view one of Ireland’s greatest treasures (and one of the most well-known medieval manuscripts): the Book of Kells.

Though the book’s date of creation remains a mystery, the Book of Kells became well known for its abstract and complex illustrations depicting the life and teachings of Jesus. While copies of the book’s famous, illustrated passages can be found sealed in protective sleeves, the original book is on display for all to view.

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