Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

 On the afternoon of July 8th, we visited the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. At first glance, it was incredibly breathtaking—a uniquely modern building nestled within Yale University, starkly contrasting with the classical architecture surrounding it. From the outside, it appeared as a towering, enormous white marble cube, making me feel as small as an ant in its presence. 

Inside, the sight was even more awe-inspiring: a wall of books greeted us, with glass cases filled with volumes reaching up to an estimated fifteen meters high. The yellow lighting reflecting off the glass was truly magnificent. Unlike ordinary buildings, the marble walls of the  Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library are translucent. Where the sunlight hits, the walls emit a yellow glow, creating an ethereal atmosphere, as if in a fairyland. 

It is understood that the library houses over one million rare books and several million manuscripts. Notable collections include early manuscripts, medieval and Renaissance manuscripts, early printed books, American literature, Western Americana, and more. Rows upon rows of books are neatly arranged on the shelves.