The article traces the path of the emergence and development of libraries in different historical periods. From ancient times, when it was customary to create libraries at the palaces of kings, to libraries that were located at monasteries; from the period of cultural and educational development, when libraries were part of universities, to libraries as independent institutions. Examples of global experience in designing modern library buildings are given. On the basis of the researched material, a number of factors that influenced the formation of architecture and the transformation of the internal space were determined, with the primary function of preservation to a multifunctional urban center as convenient as possible for the realization of cultural, social needs and ideas. A building with open spaces and areas for communication. Spirituality is the main goal of architecture. Architects and designers, when designing modern library buildings and spaces, often deviate from the strict standards of the volume-planning structure, including recreation areas, exhibition areas, cafes, conference halls, areas with access to electronic media, halls with access to open funds, etc., which are not typical for libraries. A modern library project begins with a concept. The architectural concept of a modern library is a combination of knowledge, architecture, landscape and the wider public environment. The article shows how the evolution of the forms and functions of library buildings under the influence of technical, cultural, social, and economic development of society directly affects the aesthetic and functional renewal of their architectural and artistic diversity and volumetric and spatial environment.