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Fisher Fine Arts Library Review

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Fisher Fine Arts Library

Address: 220 S. 34th St., University City, Philadelphia, PA | Map It
Phone: 215/898-8325
www.library.upenn.edu/finearts

Category: Libraries
Location: University City

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Fodor's Review:

One of the finest examples remaining of the work of Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, this was the most innovative library building in the country when it was completed in 1890. It was the first library to separate the reading room and the stacks. Peek into the catalog room, dominated by a huge fireplace, and the reading room, with study alcoves lit from the lead-glass windows above. The unusual exterior stirred controversy when it was built: note the terra-cotta panels, short heavy columns, and gargoyles on the north end.

Cost: Free
Open: Sept.-mid-May, Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 AM-midnight, Fri. 8:30-8, Sat. 10-8, Sun. noon-midnight; mid-May-Aug., weekdays 9-7

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