Geisel Library

Geisel Library is an academic library at UC San Diego with eight stories made of raw concrete and large glass walls. The building rises 33 meters above the campus and contains two underground levels plus six floors above ground, offering study spaces, computer labs, and collections of research materials.

Architect William Pereira designed this building in a brutalist and futuristic style, completing it in 1970. The innovative design with substantial concrete overhangs and supporting concrete piers represented a modern approach to academic architecture at that time.

The library holds an important collection featuring original manuscripts and artwork by Dr. Seuss, the beloved children's author and illustrator. This archive draws people interested in exploring how his creative work developed over the years.

The building is easy to navigate through a central system of elevators and stairs that connect all study levels and research areas. The glass walls and open layout help visitors find their way around the large structure without confusion.

The building features massive concrete overhangs held up by large supporting piers that give it an unusual and striking appearance. This structural solution was a bold architectural choice at the time of construction, making it look noticeably different from other library buildings.

Location: San Diego

Inception: 1970

Architects: William Pereira

Architectural style: brutalist architecture, futurism

Floors above the ground: 8

Height: 33 m

Part of: University of California, San Diego, UC San Diego Library

GPS coordinates: 32.88116,-117.23765

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:58