The new Central Library for the Chicago Public Library, opened its doors to the public on Monday, October 7, 1991. More than an example of late 20th century American architecture, the ornamentation, iconography, and allegorical figures that embellish the Harold Washington Library Center are an homage to Chicago’s history and culture. Under a Crown of Glass highlights the conception and construction of some of the building’s most popular features. The Library extends its thanks to sculptors, Kent Bloomer and Raymond Kaskey; design architects, Hammond Beeby and Babka; and photographer, Peter Fish. The Library’s Special Collections & Preservation Division holds the documentation of their work seen in this video.
To research more about this topic, make an appointment with Special Collections to view the Chicago Public Library Archives. Harold Washington Library Center, Design Build Competition Records and the Chicago Public Library Archives. Harold Washington Library Center Construction Photographs.
Add a comment to: Under a Crown of Glass: Architectural Highlights of the Harold Washington Library Center