Harvard library reading room

Widener Library's reading room at Harvard is one of the most iconic academic spaces in the world, blending Beaux-Arts architecture with a vast collection.

About this subject

The main reading room of Widener Library, on the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, stands as a symbol of academic excellence. Built in 1915, the library was donated by Eleanor Elkins Widener in memory of her son, Harry Elkins Widener, a bibliophile who perished on the Titanic. The Beaux-Arts building features a marble facade and Ionic columns, but the reading room's interior is the true gem.

The grand hall rises about 30 meters, with an ornate ceiling, large crystal chandeliers, and tall windows flooding the space with natural light. Long oak tables and wooden chairs create a solemn study environment, accommodating approximately 500 readers. Bookshelves lining the lower walls hold part of the library's 3.5 million volumes, while the upper mezzanine houses rare and reference works.

Widener is the centerpiece of Harvard's 79-library system, which collectively holds over 20 million items. The reading room has hosted numerous renowned scholars, including Helen Keller and Albert Einstein. A curiosity: the library holds a collection of 15th-century books and original manuscripts by authors such as Emily Dickinson and Henry David Thoreau. The quiet, reverent atmosphere of the space reflects centuries of pursuit of knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of Widener Library?

Widener Library was built in 1915 as a memorial to Harry Elkins Widener, a Harvard alumnus who died on the Titanic. His mother, Eleanor Elkins Widener, donated the building on the condition that the library maintain her son's personal collection of rare books.

How many books are in Harvard's main library?

Widener Library alone holds about 3.5 million volumes, but the entire Harvard library system contains over 20 million items, including books, manuscripts, and digital materials.

Can tourists visit the reading room?

Yes, the public can visit the Widener reading room at specific times, usually during guided tours. A photo ID is required, and visitors must follow rules of silence and preservation of the space.