There are many historic homes throughout Cincinnati that each tell a fascinating story. Thankfully, quite a few of these have been preserved and either continue to be used as a residence or have taken on a new life as something else. The grand home at the corner of Brookline and Ludlow in Clifton found a new purpose a few years ago when it was renovated into the Clifton Branch Library. It now stands as the most beautiful library in Cincinnati and it's the perfect spot to relax with a book and take in the history.
If you've ever driven through Clifton, you likely passed by this eye-catching home on the corner of Ludlow and Brookline.
Located just east of the Gaslight Business District, this is the former residence of George Barnesdale "Boss" Cox. It's one of many gorgeous historic homes in this area of Cincinnati.
In 2010, the home known as Parkview Manor was donated by Michael L. Dever to be a new Clifton Branch of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County.
The original location, just down the street on Ludlow, was a local favorite and offered 2,500 square feet of literary marvels, events, and activities. It was quite the change to move the library into this 10,000-square-foot home.
While the home is obviously now a library filled with books, you can still sense the history of the Manor.
Visiting to check out a book is also like spending time in a museum. The original character of the home is still intact and is filled with charm.
From the rich, wooden tones to the stained glass, it's such a beautiful space to house the meaningful words of so many authors.
Libraries already have a sense of history about them, so this historic location feels perfect as a branch.
There are plenty of spaces throughout the library to curl up with a good book.
Like all branches, Clifton also offers events for adults, teens, and children throughout the year.
And despite appearing as a castle-like home from the outside, you'll still find rows of books on the inside.
There are modern features too, of course. Computers, study rooms, and a meeting room are all available.
But you may want to spend your time out on the large porch, reading and imagining what life was once like in this area of Cincinnati.
It's easy to see why many consider this to be the most beautiful library in Cincinnati. Especially if you are a lover of books and history, stop by and visit your own slice of heaven on earth.
It's fascinating to think about the memories that have been made inside the walls of this historic Cincinnati home. And now many more can be made as it stands as the most beautiful library in Cincinnati. Have you been inside this particular branch? Which library in Cincinnati is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
For more information on this historic home and library, including hours and events, visit its website.
And for more on the massive downtown Cincinnati library, have a look in our previous article.
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