This historic library, a National Historic Landmark, is the major masterpiece of Philadelphia's most important Victorian architect, Frank Furness. Combining genius in planning and form, it is a seminal library design that expresses function while merging the imagery of cathedral and railroad station. Additions in 1916, 1922, and 1931, Restored from 1986-91 by Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates. The 1931 McGoodwin addition is home to the Arthur Ross Gallery.
Fisher Fine Arts Library, Anne and Jerome
This historic library, a National Historic Landmark, is the major masterpiece of Philadelphia's most important Victorian architect, Frank Furness. Combining genius in planning and form, it is a seminal library design that expresses function while merging the imagery of cathedral and railroad station. Additions in 1916, 1922, and 1931, Restored from 1986-91 by Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates. The 1931 McGoodwin addition is home to the Arthur Ross Gallery.
A$16M, 20-month exterior envelope restoration of the building began in 2025, and includes renovation of its distinctive stone, brick, and terracotta façade and repairs to the roof and windows. The anticipated completion is fall 2026.
The accessible entrance on the south side of the Duhring Wing leads to the elevator and the back door to the Lower Level of the Fisher Fine Arts Library. This entrance also serves as the accessible entrance to the Duhring Wing, Arthur Ross Gallery, Architectural Archives, and Kroiz Gallery.
This entrance has an automatic door operated by push plate. PennCard required for entry. For visitor access, call 215-898-8325.
The main entrance to Fisher Fine Arts from Blanche P. Levy Park (College Green) has ten stone stairs and a step up at the door.
There is one elevator in the middle of the Fisher Fine Arts Library that serves the lower level, first, and second floors.
Lower Level - accessible stall in men's and women's rooms.
- The Fine Arts Library (hours) includes the Lower Level, occupied by the Materials Library (hours), Common Press (hours), Seminar Room B, and the accessible restrooms. To access these areas, call library staff at 215-898-8325.
- The Architectural Archives on the Lower Level is accessible by a ramp. For access, call the Archives staff at 215-898-8323.
- The Arthur Ross Gallery, located on the first floor, is accessible from this entrance. For hours and information, call 215-898-1479.
- The second, third, and fourth floors of the Fisher Fine Arts Library stacks are accessible only by stairs. Library Staff can get any book that may be in the upper stacks.
- For information about Fisher Fine Arts Library, call 215-898-8325; for Materials Library, call 215-898-7086; for Common Press, call 215-746-3001.