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THE EVOLUTION OF THE HOME LIBRARY
by julie young, house & home feature writer
Once upon a time (read: pre-Downton Abbey era) the home library was a formal space where the head of the household, usually a wealthy landowner in the European countryside, stored his cherished volumes, conducted his business, and received his most important guests. Thanks to the influence of America, the traditional library evolved to become the “modern” family’s pre-Internet information superhighway. The Edwardians of the Gilded Age not only used the room as a reading nook, but it was also a place to conduct business, share news, socialize with their network of friends, play games, and listen to music. In short, it was the non-electric “smart room” of the house. Why not create one of your own? BEYOND THE COVER According to Kristie Erickson, deputy executive director of The History Museum in South Bend, the traditional library was a family room that often doubled as a home office. In time however, it was separated from the study, which was designated for business and academic pursuits. “It had the most comfortable furniture and was meant to be shared with family and friends,” she said. “It was not a quiet room filled with books.” Erickson said today’s home library can include anything that is important to the family that lives there. It may be a space to display a carefully curated collection, serve as a music hub, a book nook, a place to put together puzzles and so much more. The key is to create a comfortable place that you can share with others. 12 | Michiana House and Home | December 2021 |
Photos: Shutterstock.com
