Libraries are amazing community spaces where you can access a wealth of resources. From studying to attending programs, there is a little something for everyone. They’re a part of every bookworm’s life, so it only makes sense that they would be featured on the silver screen. Let’s look at some of the most incredible library scenes in film history.
#8- Every Day
Every Day is a book by David Levithan that was adapted into a movie in 2018. It follows the story of Rhiannon, a friendly high schooler, and A, a mysterious spirit who wakes up in a new body every day. Every day they try to reconnect no matter who A is at the moment.
In this scene, A wakes up as a homeschooled teen and meets Rhiannon at a library. She asks about what his childhood was like in his unusual situation. Flashbacks of A’s memories play on the library window panes which is a very cool touch! A talks about the idea of tomorrow being taken for granted. Then they study 50 facts and share a sweet kiss there.
#7- Something Borrowed
Something Borrowed is a 2011 romantic comedy about two best friends who like the same guy — except Darcy is engaged to him, and Rachel secretly pines over him. It is definitely a comfort movie of mine because it’s simple and fun.
This library scene is a flashback to college. Rachel and the love interest, Dex, are studying for the bar. The chemistry between them is palpable as they crack jokes and, in true library fashion, get an annoyed shush from an onlooker. Dex tries to help Rachel with her studying by developing a mnemonic, D.B.C.D. They each devise funny ways to use the mnemonic before Dex says, “Dex. Buys. Celebratory. Dinner.” Rachel plays it off cool but is obviously giddy inside. However, this dinner is where Dex meets Darcy, marking the end of their potential relationship.
#6- Legally Blonde
Elle Woods may not seem like your average Harvard Law student. She’s super perky, always dressed in pink, and is viewed as the harmful dumb blonde stereotype. But she is determined to show the world that intelligence has nothing to do with appearances.
Elle enters the library and asks to join her ex’s study group. Warner broke up with her because he said he needed to marry a serious woman to be a senator (What a jerk!). The girls at the table refuse, implying she’s not intelligent enough to join. No one stands up for her, and another student tells her to find a sorority instead. While this scene hurts to watch, it’s just a blip in Elle’s redemption arc!
#5- Harry Potter
The Harry Potter series has multiple library scenes, but the one in the first movie stands out. It features Harry in his invisible cloak at the school library after hours. He opens a book in the restricted section with a screaming face inside. He then gets followed by Argus Filch and spies on Snape and Professor Quirrell. It’s such a thrilling nighttime sneakabout!
#4- Shawshank Redemption
Andy is a bigshot banker who gets framed for the murder of his wife and her lover. He is soon sent to jail, where he works for the prison library. The library is quite underwhelming, and Andy makes it his mission to improve it drastically. He writes to the legislature to secure funds and book donations, naming the space after the former librarian. It’s such an inspirational story for the inmates.
#3- The Beauty and The Beast
Belle is probably the most relatable Disney princess because she always has her nose in a book. If she lived in modern times, I’m sure she would have been a successful Bookstagramer. To win her heart, the Beast surprises her with a stunning library that’s floor-to-ceiling full of books. It’s a paradise for Belle, raising my expectations for my future home library. A bookshelf ladder is a necessity! This is an adorable moment between her and the beast where his caring side emerges.
#2- Matilda
Matilda is a voracious reader. As a neglected little kid, she finds the library in the white pages and walks ten blocks there by herself. The scene is shot incredibly because you can see how small she is compared to the front desk. She goes there every day, reading everything in sight. The sweet old librarian, Mrs. Phelps, tells her that she can bring books home and thus begins her tradition of wheeling around books in her red wagon.
#1- The Breakfast Club
Coming in at #1 is The Breakfast Club for obvious reasons. What goes on when a Brain, an Athlete, a Basketcase, a Princess, and a Criminal serve detention in a library? A whole lot of shenanigans against library rules, including ripping up Moliere (we will never forgive you, Bender!) This movie is a classic and surprisingly engaging for taking place in one setting.
So many movies feature charming library moments. Get your library card and recreate some in real life!
Interested in more library content? Read up on our team’s experiences here.
To shop any of these adaptations, click here.
