Abondoned Wal-Mart Turned Into Largest Library in the U.S.

And in my beloved state of Texas, no less.

The architecture firm of Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle turned the 124,500 square-foot empty and abandoned Wal-Mart shell into the nation’s largest library by stripping out the old ceiling and walls of the building, giving the perimeter walls and bare warehouse ceiling a coat of white paint, and adding glass-enclosed spaces, bright architectural details and row after row of books.

The library even has an acoustically separated lounge for teens as well as 6 teen computer labs, 16 public meeting spaces, 14 public study rooms, 64 computer labs, 10 children’s computer labs and 2 genealogy computer labs. Other new features include self check-out units, an auditorium, an art gallery, a used bookstore and a cafe.

According to PSFK, library memberships have risen 23%.

Makes us want to visit McAllen. Go Texas!