A sweeping arc of aluminum, glass, and steel on the new Lewis Science Library.
Designed by Frank Gehry, the new 87,000-square-foot science library is named for Princeton University trustee Peter B. Lewis '55. The building houses library collections for astrophysics, biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics, physics, and statistics, as well as the Office of Information Technology's Education Technologies Center, New Media Center, and Broadcast Center.
Photo: Brian Wilson
Evolution... a charming arc combined with books to feed the mind and spirit. A beautiful example of true progress. Looking back to 1896, I found another example of evolution, from College to University, combined with a charming library visit:
October 21, 1896
This morning I went to Princeton to attend the Sesquicentennial celebration. It was a fine academic festival. The serious old town disported. Learning from far and near in picturesque costume distinguished the place and participated in its spirit. From color and throng I slipped aside for a moment into the university library. There were few there, and its cloistral quiet held me charmed. I read with scholarly interest the salutations, the congratulatory words, of colleges and universities the world over - some of them brightened in missal beauty. But soon I stood still, gazing blankly, but moved: the classic and the nourishing mother fed me. Rejoining my classmates, we dined together in the Biological hall, given by our class (1877), and at night in cap and gown marched in the lighted parade - certes illuminati*. Historic old North or Nassau Hall was brilliantly outlined with electric lights, and the campus scene wrought a high impression of beauty and enchantment. On this occasion the old college assumed the name and dignity of Princeton University. Over ten years ago, in a letter to Prof. Cameron, I suggested this change, and, so far as I know, was the first one to do so. He expressed some doubts and difficulties, but I assured him that they could be overcome and legislative consent and amendments to the charter obtained.
Edwin Manners....from his journals.