Sterling Memorial Library, main library building of the Yale University Library system
Sterling Memorial Library is a large academic library building at the center of Yale's campus, built in Collegiate Gothic and Romanesque Revival style using stone, steel, and stained glass windows. The building holds over 2.5 million books across 14 floors and contains specialized collections, music library, manuscript archives, and exhibition spaces.
The library began construction in 1927 under architect Bertram Goodhue, later taken over by James Gamble Rogers, and opened in 1931. The project was financed by a major gift from John W. Sterling, a Yale graduate and lawyer who wanted to expand the collection into a modern institution for scholarship.
The library's name honors John W. Sterling and his major gift to Yale. Decorations throughout show scenes from literature and history, such as Shakespeare's plays and Babylonian symbols, reflecting a focus on scholarship and global knowledge.
The library is easily reached from the main campus via College Street, Elm Street, and High Street, with many seating areas, individual tables, group tables, and work zones. There are private study rooms, computer stations, quiet areas, and bathrooms on ground level and below, with some entrances accessible at night with a Yale ID.
The building contains over 680 stained glass windows designed by artist G. Owen Bonawit, showing scenes from Yale's history, local events, and moments from famous books. Even small utility rooms are decorated with figures like Jack Spratt and brooms, giving the building hidden playfulness.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
