Geisel Library

DETAILS:

• Location: 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093

• Hours of Operation: TBD due to COVID19

• Parking: Campus parking available. Various rates apply. Please observe all posted parking signage.

• Cost: Free!

• Time Commitment: 30 minutes.

One of the most recognizable buildings in all of San Diego, The Geisel Library is the main library at the University of California, San Diego. Recently celebrating its 50th birthday, the library was designed and completed in 1970 by famed architect and noted science-fiction fan; William Pereira, who became celebrated for his bold, futuristic constructions (including the iconic Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport). His vision for the library would be no different, utilizing a style of architecture known as Brutalism which is characterized by massive, monolithic blocks with a rigid geometric style composed of concrete. Affectionately dubbed the “mothership” by the student body, the library would eventually be named after Theodore and Audrey Geisel in 1995. Theodore, of course, is best-known for his pen-name; Dr. Seuss. So it’s little wonder that the library houses one of the preeminent collections of his work consisting of roughly 8,500 original drawings, sketches, proofs, notebooks, manuscript drafts, books, photographs, and memorabilia.

“You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.” This memorable Dr. Seuss quote may not have been about the Geisel Library, but with its one-of-a-kind stature, one other Dr. Seuss quotes certainly applies, “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.”

 

RESOURCES:

• Geisel Library website.