Fisher Fine Arts Library

Fisher Fine Arts Library stands on the University of Pennsylvania campus with red sandstone walls, brick detailing, and Venetian Gothic architectural elements. The building contains eight floors with glass-covered book stacks serving as a major resource for art and architecture research.

Frank Furness designed this structure in 1888 using Venetian Gothic style. It functioned as the University of Pennsylvania's main library until 1962, when the institution's collections relocated to a larger facility.

The main reading room features four levels of brick and terracotta finishes with Shakespeare quotes etched into the windows. These quotations were personally selected by professor Horace Howard Furness to inspire those studying within the space.

The building houses extensive collections focused on art and architecture resources, with regular access available on weekdays for students and faculty. Visitors should plan to spend time exploring multiple floors connected by stairs throughout the interior.

Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright visited the building in 1957 and praised it as the work of an artist after observing its architectural design. His recognition highlighted the structure's place among significant works of architectural creation.

Location: Philadelphia

Architects: Frank Furness

Architectural style: Venetian Gothic architecture

Floors above the ground: 8

Part of: University of Pennsylvania Libraries

Website: https://library.upenn.edu/finearts

GPS coordinates: 39.95139,-75.19250

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02