The library pictured above isn’t your average community destination for exploration in the peace and quiet. It wasn’t erected from the ground up to serve as a reading and researching hub. This library, located in Allen, TX, was actually converted from an old Wal-Mart that the mega-retailer abandoned to move to a bigger facility. Look at more interesting photos inside the building after the jump and see what other unused structures have been changed to enhance knowledge throughout communities.


The McAllen Public Library is now the biggest single-story library in America. Besides an endless number of bookshelves, the library also houses a quiet room, a volunteer-run bookstore, several computer rooms and a cafe. The center is still experiencing an influx of book loans and new registrants since it opened late last year. The city’s goal to create a stronger community has definitely worked!

Visit the gallery to see other converted libraries! And if you’d like to see even more along with interesting pictures and tidbits, visit Flavorwire.

Do you visit your local library often? Do any of these featured libraries stick out?