Library of the Week: Suzzallo Library, University of Washington, Seattle

Suzzallo Library is the central library of the University of Washington in Seattle, and it is perhaps the most recognizable building on campus. It is named for Henry Suzzallo, who was president of the University of Washington until he stepped down in 1926, the same year the first phase of the library’s construction was completed. The library was renamed for him after his death in 1933.

Ever since it opened, the second floor reading room has inspired comparisons with the great library reading rooms of the world and is often compared to the nave of great cathedrals. Measuring 65 feet high, 52 feet wide, and 250 feet long, the reading room features a vaulted ceiling elaborately decorated with rich colored and gilded stenciling; oak bookcases topped with a hand-carved frieze representing native plants of Washington State; and tall windows with leaded glass incorporating 28 Renaissance watermark medallions. At each end of the reading room, a paneled alcove features a hanging lighted globe bearing the names of world explorers. Throughout the room, carved sandstone, wood paneling, and ironwork grills represent the craftsmanship employed in creating this space.