About Clements Library

The William L. Clements Library at the University of Michigan is a beautiful and historic building that has been an important part of the university’s campus for nearly a century. The library, which is named after its benefactor William L. Clements, was designed by the renowned architectural firm of Allen, Norton & Blue in the late 1920s.

The Clements Library is a three-story building constructed in the Georgian Revival style, which is characterized by its symmetrical facade and use of classical architectural elements such as pediments, columns, and dentil moldings. The building is made of Indiana limestone and features a red clay tile roof. The most striking feature of the Clements Library is the grand entranceway, which is flanked by two Doric columns and topped by a triangular pediment.

Inside, the library is just as impressive as the exterior. The main reading room is a beautiful space with a coffered ceiling, fireplace, and a large skylight that floods the room with natural light. The library also features a map room, a manuscripts room, and a rare book room. The Clements Library’s collection is focused on American history and culture, particularly the early American republic and the American West. It holds an extensive collection of primary sources including maps, books, manuscripts, and photographs.

The Clements Library was opened to the public in 1923 and has been a valuable resource for researchers and scholars ever since. It has undergone several renovations over the years to keep the building and its collections in excellent condition. The library continues to be a vital center for research and scholarship, attracting scholars from around the world to study its unique collections. The Clements Library is not only an architectural gem but also a treasure trove of historical knowledge, providing an unparalleled resource for the study of American history.