18th Avenue Library
The 18th Avenue Library actually started out as the Science and Engineering Library (SEL), in response for the need to consolidate a number of related collections that were spread across the campus. At the time of SEL’s construction, there were seven small libraries (Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Astronomy, Materials Engineering, and Computer Science) housed throughout various buildings dedicated to science and engineering, each with its own collection and its own staff. The idea was for this new library to consolidate the collections, eliminate redundancies and greatly improve the size and quality of study spaces.
Construction on the library began in August 1991 after the demolition of the Brown Hall Annex. The library was part of a three-building project, along with the Math Tower and a two-story classroom building, both behind the library on 19th Avenue.
All three buildings were designed by Philip Johnson, who was known as the father of modern architecture in the United States. For his efforts, Johnson received an honorary degree from OSU in 1988. A native Ohioan, Johnson is also known for designing the AT&T Building in New York City and the Crystal Cathedral in California. The buildings are described by the architectural firm as “recalling the Edwardian brick structures of Arthur Beresford Pite erected in England during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The design employs the dominant motif of that period—the Roman Arch.” Art by Dale Chihuly, who specializes in hand-blown glass, was installed.
The Science and Engineering Library opened on January 3, 1993. In 2011 the Music and Dance collections were relocated to SEL, linking the Sciences and Humanities. Because of its extended purpose, the building was renamed the 18th Avenue Library in March 2013.
More information: John H. Herrick Archives: 18th Avenue Library
