Almost any major place you go will have a library. Even a bad library is better than anywhere else if you need to just calm down & spend some quiet time learning about where you are (for even if the books offer no local history/context, chances are that you will meet some interesting characters).
Here are a few good suggestions for places in Europe - I think this Geraldine Fabrikant must have had a fun time seeking them out. Here is a link also to our library system. Let me know when you're in town and I'll take you there.
