Shhh! Take a peek at the world’s most exquisite libraries

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'The Library: A World History' showcases some of the most beautiful libraries in the world

The book covers 21 countries and features 85 libraries in total

CNN  — 

Libraries encapsulate the history of knowledge and stand as monuments to different epochs in architecture, interior design and art.

When Dr. James Campbell of Cambridge University could not find a book that traced the history of library buildings through the ages, he decided to write one himself.

With the renowned architectural photographer Will Pryce he embarked on an epic journey across 21 countries, visiting 85 of the world’s greatest libraries.

Three years later the result is “The Library: A World History,” the most complete account of library buildings to date.