Harvard library reading room

The reading room of the Widener Library at Harvard is one of the most emblematic academic spaces in the United States, blending neoclassical architecture with a collection of millions of volumes.

About this subject

The Widener Library, located on the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is the university's main library and one of the largest academic libraries in the world. Its principal reading room, known as the Widener Reading Room, was designed by architect Horace Trumbauer and opened in 1915. The space is a notable example of Beaux-Arts neoclassical style, featuring high ceilings, marble columns, crystal chandeliers, and large windows that flood the room with natural light. The room seats approximately 500 readers, arranged at solid oak tables illuminated by iconic green copper lamps, a classic symbol of academic design.

The library was built with a donation from Eleanor Elkins Widener in memory of her son, Harry Elkins Widener, a bibliophile who died in the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. The initial collection included Harry's rare books, and today Widener's holdings exceed 3.5 million volumes, covering diverse fields of knowledge. The reading room is surrounded by three tiers of bookshelves that house part of the open-stack collection, while rarer works are kept in restricted areas.

Among the curiosities, there is a tradition that every Harvard student must pass through the Widener Reading Room at least once during their undergraduate years. The space has hosted historical figures such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and T.S. Eliot, and served as inspiration for library rooms in films like 'The Lake House'. The room's architecture also influenced the design of other university libraries in the United States, such as Yale's Sterling Library.

Today, the Widener Reading Room remains in heavy use, with extended hours during exam periods. The environment is known for its reverent silence, broken only by the sound of turning pages and keyboards. Maintenance of the space is meticulous, with periodic restorations to preserve original details such as the ceiling murals and marble floors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Widener Library reading room?

The reading room was designed by architect Horace Trumbauer in the Beaux-Arts neoclassical style and opened in 1915.

How many books does the Widener Library hold?

Widener's collection exceeds 3.5 million volumes, making it one of the largest academic libraries in the world.

Why is the library called Widener?

It is named after Harry Elkins Widener, a bibliophile who died on the Titanic. His mother, Eleanor, donated the funds for the library's construction in his memory.