Has a search for how to describe a library in a story brought you this post? Below are 10 words you use to write a library setting that readers will find enthralling.
1. Bewitching
Definition
Possessed of such beauty it is distracting.
Examples
“The library was bewitching with towering shelves, dim lighting, and the musty scent of aged books that seemed to transport its visitors to a different time and place.”
“The bewitching allure of the library proved to be too much for her. She knew she needed to do other things today but the thought of getting lost in a book was far too tempting.”
How it Adds Description
Libraries can often seem like magical places, or seem to hold people as if they are under some sort of spell. To help to illustrate the power it has, try describing it as being “bewitching”!
2. Extensive
Definition
- Covering a wide area.
- Having a large range.
Examples
“The extensive library at the college had towering shelves filled with countless volumes, spanning every topic imaginable. It was a scholar’s paradise.”
“The library was so extensive that it took almost 20 minutes to walk from wall to wall.”
How it Adds Description
“Extensive” is a fantastic word to use for a library in a story as it can help you to illustrate two factors to your reader: both the size of the library, and the sheer amount of information it may contain on different topics.
3. Grand
Definition
- Impressive or important.
- Attractive in style and appearance.
- Large in scale.
Examples
“The library was a grand example of architecture, with its majestic marble columns, intricate frescoes adorning the ceiling, and rows upon rows of beautifully bound books.”
“The grand expanse of the library was covered with ornate wooden shelves, and the tables between them were studded with readers from all ages and backgrounds.”
How it Adds Description
Libraries are often celebrated halls of knowledge, and as a result can often be built in a way that reflects this. If this is true of the library in your story, consider describing it as “grand” to illustrate not only its majesty but its impact on your characters and reader.
4. Immense
Definition
Extremely large.
Examples
“The immense library was a winding mass of bookshelves that seemed to stretch on endlessly, with thousands upon thousands of books in every imaginable language.”
“Exploring the immense library was an adventure in itself, with hidden nooks and crannies filled with ancient tomes, rare manuscripts, and forgotten works waiting to be discovered.”
How it Adds Description
Sometimes a library can be so vast that it can be hard to find a word to describe it, especially for bookworm characters who could easily get lost within one for days on end. To describe how large a library literally is, or at least how it might seem to some of your characters, try using the word “immense”.
5. Imposing
Definition
Appearing important and inspiring admiration.
Examples
“The imposing library was a formidable sight, with its towering Gothic architecture, arched windows, and heavy wooden doors that seemed to guard the knowledge within.”
“Entering the imposing library felt like stepping into a funeral service, with the solemn silence broken only by the sound of pages turning and the occasional whisper of a scholar deep in study.”
How it Adds Description
Although some characters might see a library as a paradise, others might see it as a formidable obstacle to overcome. You can illustrate the power that the library holds over your characters by describing it as “imposing”.
6. Labyrinth
Definition
A maze-like assortment of passages that is easy to get lost in.
Examples
“The library was a labyrinth of sprawling shelves and displays. She could easily see how someone could get lost for hours here.”
“The labyrinthine library was as full of unexpected twists and turns as the books on its shelves.”
How it Adds Description
Describing a library as a “labyrinth”, or being “labyrinthine” helps you to show to your reader how characters can get lost within its walls. It may be that they become physically lost amongst the shelves, or they may become trapped by their own curiosity to read and learn more and more!
7. Municipal
Definition
Belonging to a town or city.
Examples
“It was clear to see that little love had been placed into the library by the town. Instead of being a municipal hub for everyone of all walks of life, it was a depressing concrete shell that was barely visited.”
“Despite the rise of digital media, the municipal library remained a popular destination for those seeking a quiet space to read, study, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city.”
How it Adds Description
Most libraries are owned by the town or city they are found in, making them “municipal” buildings. They can therefore be great insights for your reader as to how the place your characters are in treats things such as learning, public resources, and its people.
8. Prestigious
Definition
Respected and admired, usually due to its importance.
Examples
“The grand library was so prestigious that access was limited to a select few scholars and researchers.”
“Just as prestigious as the university itself was its library, which was revered the world over for not just its architecture but also the rare texts contained within.”
How it Adds Description
Some libraries hold such valuable pieces of knowledge that they are well respected and almost worshipped! Describe your library as “prestigious” to show just how privileged your characters and your reader are to be allowed access.
9. Shadowy
Definition
- Dark and filled with shadows.
- Something mysterious that not much is known about.
Examples
“The shadowy library, hidden away in a forgotten corner of the city, was rumored to hold dark and forbidden texts from long ago.”
“The dimly lit and shadowy corridors of the library were lined with ominous-looking tomes, and the only sounds to be heard were the soft rustling of pages and the occasional whisper of an unseen librarian.”
How it Adds Description
If you need to describe a dark and sinister library, try using the word “shadowy”. This can imply not only darkness or evil but also the fact that it may contain unknown knowledge that may be pivotal for your characters’ journeys.
10. Welcoming
Definition
Friendly and making someone feel welcome.
Examples
“The library was always a welcoming friend after school, helping to whisk her away to other worlds that weren’t as chaotic as home.”
“The warm fire, cozy armchairs, and friendly librarian made the library a truly welcoming space for readers of all ages.”
How it Adds Description
Libraries can often end up as safe havens, especially for characters who may be experiencing problems or may not feel like they fit in. By describing your library as “welcoming” you can illustrate to your reader how it helps your characters to escape.