While we didn’t expect to find a privately owned library worthy of our list, let’s just say it was a pleasant surprise to
learn that American inventor and entrepreneur Jay Walker used his wealth to develop a comprehensive private library.
Christened “The Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination,” the library located in Walker’s Connecticut home has
been called “the most amazing library in the world” by WIRED magazine as well as the subject of a TED Talk. The architecture
incorporates a multi-level design inspired by the surreal works of M.C. Escher. It houses more than 50,000 books, including
historic and museum-worthy manuscripts and publications. While the library is not open to the public, Walker has been known
to host notable public figures at his home.