1966 National Library, Vienna, Austria

[LIB11008] The Austrian National Library is the largest library in Austria, with 7.4 million items in its various collections. The library is located in the Hofburg Palace in Vienna.

United States Libraries on Stamps

Slightly off topic here but I thought this is worth sharing. Larry T. Nix has done some wonderful work with library postcards, library history, and library stamps. It is well worth your time to take a look. Larry has devoted a great deal of time, effort passion and love to the various aspects of library history. His site, The Library History Buff appeals to both the novice and more serious interests. Super job Larry!

Library Quote Postage Stamp

Public Library, "A library is not a luxury but ... by jeendres
See other Public library Postage

1954 Low Library, Columbia University, NY

Columbia University Commemorative stamp, 1754-1954.

[LIB3555]

1913 Public Library SOUTH NORWALK CT

A real photo post card published by Underwood & Underwood, New York and London.

Prior to 1912, private companies controlled the delivery of parcels throughout the U.S. There was a lot of money to be made delivering theses parcels, and the private companies lobbied heavily against the U.S. Post Office entering the business. Unfortunately, just as it is today, the more lucrative markets were where the population densities were the highest, meaning rural areas and particularly farmers were not getting proper service. On August 24, 1912, Congress approved a law providing for parcel post service and authorized the production of stamps to pay the parcel fees, to be effective January 1, 1913. [SOURCE]

1800 to 2000 Library of Congress Commemorative Postage Stamp

Libraries - Creativity - Liberty

"The Library of Congress, America's library, is celebrating its 200th birthday in 2000. This bicentennial recognizes all libraries and the vital role they play in advancing American creativity and liberty."

[LIB1863]

First Day of Issue: Saluting America's Libraries

This is a First Day of Issue from 1982. A first day cover (FDC) is an envelope where the postage stamps have been canceled on their first day of issue. Depending on the policy of the nation issuing the stamp, official first day postmarks may sometimes be applied to covers weeks or months after the date indicated. [Wikipedia]

I have included it on this site because the design is exquisite and the craftsmanship is superb. The illustration really captures the look of a library, pre-computer era. Also noteworthy, is the wording on the 20 cent stamp: "America's Libraries: Legacies to Mankind" Technically, this area of postal history may be considered "philately" or the study of stamps.

[FDC01172]