UW Libraries Facts

What is the history of Suzzallo Library?
Here is an overview of Suzzallo Library's architecture and history. Also see the September 2003 article in Columns. For a history of the Odegaard Undergraduate Library see the Odegaard Undergraduate Library 25th Anniversary Celebration.

Who are the statues on Suzzallo Library?
Here is information on the 18 statues on the west facade of Suzzallo Library. For more information about campus buildings see:

Who are Suzzallo and Allen?
Henry Suzzallo served as president of the University of Washington from 1915 to 1926. Under his tenure the university grew from a regional institution with just 3,000 students to the preeminent educational institution in the nortwest. Henry Suzzallo died in 1933 at the age of 58. The library was named in his honor at the time of his death.

Kenneth S. Allen was an associate director for the University of Washington Libraries from 1960 to 1982. His son, Paul Allen, cofounder of Microsoft, donated $10 million in his father's name, of which $8 million supports a permanent endowment for the library. The Allen Library was dedicated in 1991.

Who is Odegaard?
Charles E. Odegaard served as president of the University of Washington from 1958 and 1973. Under his tenure the university's student population doubled in size, the budget increased 10-fold and 35 new buildings were erected. The Undergraduate Library was named in his honor. Charles Odegaard died in 1999 at the age of 88. For more information on his life and accomplishments see the article on Charles Odegaard in Columns.

Who works in the UW Libraries?
Here is a directory of library staff. There is also a list of subject librarians.

What's going on at the UW Libraries?
See the listing of library events and exhibits. For campus wide events see:

How can I support the UW Libraries?

You can become a member of the Friends of the Libraries.
You can make a gift to a specific UW Libraries fund.
You can donate materials to enrich our collections.