45 is the new 20!

This week while preparing for a tour of the Sterling Morton Library, I realized the Library will be marking its 45th anniversary in 2008! The Reading Room of the Library, designed by noted architect Harry Weese opened in October of 1963.

Additional information about Weese including details of some of his significant commissions can be found at:

• Wikipedia entry about Harry Weese
  
• Chicago Architects Oral History Project – The Art Institute of Chicago
  
• Weese's obituary in the New York Times

In 1973, a 10 year anniversary article by Ian MacPhail in the Morton Arboretum Quarterly nicely detailed and illustrated the early history of this amazing resource and collection. In addition to the architectural features of the Library, Ian also described the Library’s genesis and early history. Please contact me if you are interested in viewing a copy of this article.

Visit the Library and revel in Weese’s remarkable design with curved bookcases, glass shelves, fireplace, large windows, clerestory and a ceiling that appears to float. During this year, the staff of the Sterling Morton Library will be developing several different opportunities and occasions to celebrate this significant anniversary!