New York Public Library

Long before virtual reality and 3D action movies, the stereoscope was an obscure device that people used to transport themselves to another reality.

The library of the future could include affordable housing upstairs, retail downstairs, and a 24-hour community lounge in the lobby.

For Kenneth Santos, a biochemistry major at SUNY–Geneseo, reading outdoors in the summer gives him a chance to enjoy his favorite books, instead of getting constantly distracted by electronic devices.