The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library

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Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library, Rosemont College

Institution Name: Rosemont College
Original/Historic Place Name: Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library
Location on Campus: 1400 Montgomery Ave.
Date(s) of Construction and Designer(s):

1925	original construction Magaziner, Eberhard & Harris
1935	addition of wing Unknown
1952	addition Unknown

Type of Place: Individual building
Style(s): (Glossary)
Materials:

Foundation: none specified

Walls: local gray limestone

Roof: slate

Function:

1925-1941	chapel
1925-present (2007)	library

Significance: education
Landmark designation:

none

Narrative: see below
References: see below

Narrative:
Until the Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library was built in 1926, the library was housed in the Main Building in a room that had been the library for the Sinnott family. In addition to the poignant story that the library was built in memory of their daughter Gertrude, who died at age 14 in 1920, the library is also the heart of the college. Mr. and Mrs. Kistler added a wing in 1935, and upon their deaths in 1952, the last addition to the building was made in 1954, thanks to the Kistlers, who bequeathed their estate to Rosemont College.

The library is not merely a repository for books, as technology has taken hold in the library's development. And while it continues to be the place for learning, the main reading room is also often used for lectures, reunions, and other small social events. Kistler Library is one of the first places alumnae visit upon their arrival to campus.

References:

I. Bibliographic sources:

Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library at Rosemont College. Booklet. Rosemont, PA: Rosemont College, 2001.

II. Location of other data:

University: Special Collections, Facilities Management Office