The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Zondervan Library/Rice Bell Tower

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Zondervan Library and Rice Bell Tower, Taylor University (Upland)

Institution Name: Taylor University
Original/Historic Place Name: Zondervan Library/Rice Bell Tower
Location on Campus: 236 W. Reade Ave. (Upland campus)
Date(s) of Construction:

1986	original construction Troyer & Associates

Designer: Troyer & Associates
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Modern/post-WWII (Glossary)
Significance:
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: concrete

Walls: brick exterior, brick-stud walls, interior drywall

Roof: copper

Function:

ca. 1986-present (2006)	library
ca. 1986-present (2006)	bell tower

Narrative:
The Zondervan library is named after the publishing firm bearing the same name. The facility was unique in design for facilities at the time of its dedication and has served the university well during the last twenty years. This facility has become the academic centerpiece of the campus. Also housed in this facility is the significant collection of the writer C.S. Lewis and several of his peers known as the Inklings.

When the campus master plan of 1981 was produced, it was determined that the campus needed a focal centerpiece to symbolize the mission and heart of the campus. The Rice Bell Tower stands as that landmark to this date. Two twin spires, representing the integration of academic excellence and spiritual integrity, stand as the two pivotal pillars of the Taylor University educational experience. When lit at night, the two main lights shine the two spires into the evening sky, making the symbol visible well beyond the campus boundary.

References:

Campus master plan. 1981. Taylor University,