Some people look for amusement parks and casinos in their travels. I seek out churches, bridges, bookstores and libraries.
Mackinaw Island is thought of primarily as a summer destination but it’s also home to a year round population of about 500. The library has shorter hours during the winter but it does stay open.
This location, right on the lake, dates to 1992 but the island has been served by a library since 1936. We were there on a Sunday so we didn’t make it inside but the exterior is charming.
I stood there for a moment imagining life as a librarian in this quaint island community. The thought was fleeting since I don’t care for crowds of summer tourists and the isolation may not be the best for me.
Someday I’ll go back on a weekday for a look-see inside!
We often visit libraries during our travels, too. I’ve always thought not many do that. A library in downtown Dallas even had a list of things to see in the library. I also enjoy visiting thrift shops, but my husband doesn’t enjoy that. So, I go sometimes, just not as often as I’d like. I remember seeing a college on Mackinac Island when I visited as a young girl. I imagined attending college there. I later learned the college didn’t survive. I wonder what became of the buildings. This post is right up my alley!
What a pity the college didn’t survive! That would be a magical place to learn!
The library in downtown Columbus sometimes does tours. I have always wanted to go do that!
Another lovely place on a special island! Thanks for sharing!
I’m from Michigan & the Macinaw Library is amazing with still having a “Rosa Webb Room.” Dedicated to the woman that established the library on the island & michigan’s first girl scout troop. I love history & especially libraries. I’ve home schooled my girls for years & traveled, so I’ve acquired the passion of finding libraries to check out their history & most are architecturally gorgeous.
I always look for libraries when I travel and love finding one open. It’s nice to meet a kindred spirit!
I’m especially fond of all those old libraries financed by Andrew Carnegies. Perhaps I’ll make it back to Mackinac someday and get to see inside this one.