Redpath Library

Redpath Library is a university building on the McGill campus in Montreal built with limestone walls and carved symbols of the Four Evangelists on its exterior. Today it functions as Redpath Hall, hosting music recitals and events while housing specialized collections.

The building was donated to McGill University in 1893 by Peter Redpath and Grace Wood to meet growing educational needs. This gift proved crucial to the campus development and its capacity to serve more students.

The reading room features stained glass windows showing poets, artists, and composers such as Homer, Virgil, Bach, and Beethoven. These artworks create an inspiring space that reflects the building's connection to the arts and learning.

The building is easy to navigate with its stone staircase construction and multiple entrances, though parking near the campus is limited. Visitors should allow time to explore both the architecture and the specialized collections housed within.

The building featured innovative design in 1893 with a steel frame system for the book stacks and glass floors that allowed light to pass between levels. These technical features made it possible to bring natural light deeper into the structure.

Location: Montreal

Inception: 1893

Architects: Andrew Taylor

Architectural style: Richardsonian Romanesque

GPS coordinates: 45.50376,-73.57695

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:01