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The new Harvard University Library (HUL) building is home to the Office for Information
Systems, Weissman Preservation Center and Open Collections Program, as well Cambridge-
based personnel for the Harvard Depository and HUL Human Resources. The
Harvard University Library is the central service provider and coordinating body for the
90-plus libraries that compose Harvard's library system and together form the largest
academic library in the world. Sidney Verba, Carl H. Pforzheimer University Professor
and Director of the University Library, wrote, "We believe that the synergies achieved by
locating these programs in a shared space will lead to new and higher levels of thoughtful
service to the Harvard libraries." The Globe Corner Bookstore, a retail establishment,
currently occupies a portion of the ground level. The 30,405 square foot building is
meant to “...make an architectural statement, a statement of modernity and the vibrancy
of our Cambridge urban setting.” The new facility was constructed and is operated by
Harvard Real Estate Services. It was designed by Leers Weinzapfel Associates Architects
of Boston and the interior fit-out, including a state of the art special collections conservation
lab, was designed by Alspector Anderson Architects of New York City.
Very early in the design process, it was decided that the Library Services building would be an example of green
design at Harvard University. This project demonstrates that a sustainable building can be constructed despite challenges
associated with a small urban site, an extensive public approvals process, strict temperature and humidity
requirements, and two architectural teams. The geothermal heating and cooling system was a keystone for the project.
Aside from the energy efficiency and life cycle costing advantages, this system addressed community concerns
regarding noisy rooftop equipment, Cambridge Historical Commission concerns regarding the scale of the building,
including rooftop penthouses, and local zoning requirements. Great care was taken to allow protection of the collections
while providing natural daylighting throughout the building for the 86 full-time employees.
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