Washington, a state celebrated for its majestic natural beauty, from lush green forests to the poetic Pacific coast, also harbors a lesser-known treasure: stunning historic libraries. Here, amidst bustling cities and tranquil university campuses, magnificent architectural structures stand tall as beacons of knowledge, illuminating the path of exploration and learning for generations. These libraries are not merely repositories of countless precious books but also works of art, historical witnesses, embodying timeless beauty and profound cultural stories. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) as we explore these architectural gems, where knowledge and beauty intertwine, offering unforgettable experiences for anyone who sets foot within.
Suzzallo Library, University of Washington: An Architectural Icon of Romanesque Knowledge
Proudly situated on the University of Washington (UW) campus in Seattle, Suzzallo Library is not only the intellectual heart of the university but also a magnificent architectural icon that captivates every gaze. Constructed over nearly three decades (1915-1942), Suzzallo is a masterpiece of Romanesque Revival architecture, a movement that revived the 11th and 12th-century Romanesque style, embodying grandeur, solidity, and timeless classical beauty.
Suzzallo Library, University of Washington, a magnificent Romanesque Revival architectural icon
Stepping into Suzzallo, you will immediately be overwhelmed by its imposing beauty. The library’s facade is built of warm reddish-brown sandstone, with soaring arches, sturdy columns, and intricate decorative details. The graceful arched windows not only bring natural light into the interior but also create a harmonious and soft architectural rhythm. Notably, the facade of the library is adorned with carvings of great thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Dante, and Shakespeare, affirming the crucial role of knowledge and culture in human development.
Suzzallo’s most prominent architectural highlight is the main reading room, often referred to as the “Graduate Reading Room.” This space is designed in a magnificent Gothic cathedral architectural style, with a soaring ceiling supported by majestic stone columns, vibrant stained-glass windows, and endless rows of antique oak bookshelves. Soft natural light filters through the stained-glass windows, bathing the space in an ethereal glow, creating a serene, solemn, and inspiring atmosphere. Here, you can easily find a private corner to immerse yourself in the world of books, or simply admire the unique architectural beauty and feel the tranquility and peace amidst the bustling city.
Suzzallo is not only architecturally beautiful but also a treasure trove of invaluable knowledge. The library currently houses over 6 million volumes, along with countless other rare materials, including manuscripts, ancient maps, archives, and special collections. It serves the learning and research needs of thousands of students, faculty, and researchers at the University of Washington, and also welcomes visitors and book lovers to explore. Visiting Suzzallo, you will not only admire a stunning architectural work but also immerse yourself in a vast space of knowledge, feeling the connection between the past, present, and future.
Collins Memorial Library, University of Puget Sound: Gothic Beauty Amidst Greenery
Nestled within the verdant campus of the University of Puget Sound (UPS) in Tacoma, Collins Memorial Library offers a classic and elegant beauty, harmonizing with the surrounding natural splendor. Built in 1924, Collins Memorial is a prime example of Collegiate Gothic architecture, a style prevalent in American universities in the early 20th century, inspired by European Gothic architecture of the Middle Ages.
Entering the UPS campus, you will easily recognize Collins Memorial with its dignified gray sandstone building, antique moss-green pitched tile roof, and pointed arched windows characteristic of Gothic architecture. The library’s facade is decorated with delicate carvings, deeply imbued with Gothic artistry. In contrast to the imposing grandeur of Suzzallo, Collins Memorial exudes a sense of intimacy, warmth, and tranquility, like a haven of knowledge hidden amidst lush greenery.
The interior of Collins Memorial also reflects the Collegiate Gothic style. The library’s main reading room is designed with a high ceiling, sturdy stone columns, and large stained-glass windows, creating an airy space filled with natural light. Dark wood furnishings, classic desk lamps, and towering bookshelves further enhance the library’s antique and solemn beauty. Here, you can find a quiet space to study, research, or simply relax and read in an atmosphere steeped in academia.
Collins Memorial is not just a beautiful library but also a vital center of knowledge for the University of Puget Sound. The library currently holds a diverse collection of materials, including books, journals, electronic resources, and special collections. It provides study spaces, research facilities, and information support services for students, faculty, and the UPS community. Collins Memorial is a testament to the harmonious blend of architecture, nature, and knowledge, offering a unique and memorable experience for any visitor.
Conclusion: A Journey of Discovering Timeless Knowledge and Beauty
The historic libraries in Washington are not just beautiful architectural works but also cultural symbols, invaluable repositories of knowledge. Suzzallo Library with its magnificent Romanesque beauty and Collins Memorial Library with its Collegiate Gothic charm are two of the most exemplary instances. Visiting these libraries, you will not only admire unique architectural beauty but also immerse yourself in a vast space of knowledge, feeling the connection between the past and the present. Take the time to visit these historic libraries when you have the chance to come to Washington, to discover the stories hidden behind the stone walls, to wander among the bookshelves, and to feel the endless inspiration from knowledge and beauty.