The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Swirbul Library

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Swirbul Library (detail of entrance), Adelphi University

Institution Name: Adelphi University
Original/Historic Place Name: Swirbul Library
Location on Campus: South Ave.
Date(s) of Construction:

1963	original construction Neutra, Richard J.

Designer: Richard J. Neutra
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Modern/post-WWII (Glossary)
Significance: architecture, education
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: concrete

Walls: brick and glass

Roof:

Function:

1963-present (2006)

library

Narrative:
Swirbul Library was designed for Adelphi University by the renowned California architect Richard J. Neutra. Its most notable feature is the magnificent circular staircase extending from the first to the second floor, which Neutra described as symbolizing "the spiraled ascent to wisdom." The 36,881 square-foot two-story building was opened to the public on August 16, 1963.

References: