Billings Library

The Billings Library, located on the campus of the University of Vermont (UVM) in Burlington, Vermont, is a historic and architecturally significant building that serves as the university's main library. Designed by noted architect Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1885, the library is a masterpiece of Romanesque Revival architecture, characterized by its distinctive red sandstone exterior, round arches, and intricate detailing.

The Billings Library was commissioned by Frederick H. Billings, a prominent Vermont lawyer, businessman, and philanthropist, in memory of his late son, Frederick H. Billings Jr., who had attended UVM. The library was intended to be a gift to the university and a tribute to the intellectual and cultural pursuits of its students and faculty.

The interior of the Billings Library is equally impressive, featuring a grand central atrium with a soaring ceiling, elaborate woodwork, and stained glass windows. The library's main reading room, adorned with carved oak bookcases and a decorative fireplace, provides a serene and scholarly environment for studying, research, and contemplation.

In addition to its architectural significance, the Billings Library houses a valuable collection of books, manuscripts, and rare materials that reflect the university's academic and cultural heritage. The library's Special Collections department preserves and maintains these treasures, making them accessible to students, scholars, and researchers for study and scholarship.

Over the years, the Billings Library has undergone renovations and expansions to accommodate the evolving needs of the university community. Today, it remains a vital hub of intellectual and cultural activity on the UVM campus, providing resources, services, and spaces that support teaching, learning, and research across a wide range of disciplines.

While the Billings Library is no longer the university's main library, having been replaced by the nearby Bailey/Howe Library in 1961, it continues to serve as an important academic and architectural landmark at the University of Vermont. Visitors to Burlington can admire its historic beauty and learn about its rich history through guided tours, exhibits, and educational programs offered by the university.