Uris Library
Related Information
Uris serves as the main University library with an emphasis
on undergraduates. Attached to the library is the underground
reading room, commonly known as the "cocktail lounge,"
which looks out over Libe Slope.
Building emergencies: 255-5322 (24 hour - utilities
maintenance)
See Card titled, "Libraries" for facilities hours and phone
numbers.
Uris Library was opened in 1892 as the University Library. It
was designed by William Henry Miller in "modified Romanesque"
style, and cost over $200,000. It was the gift of Henry W.
Sage in memory of Jennie McGraw Fiske, stemming from a
period in University history known as the "Great Will Case."
To find further details about the case, read Morris Bishop's
"History of Cornell."
The University Library was renamed Uris Library in 1962, after
Harold D. Uris '25. It was his gift which helped to finance the
1962 remodeling of the library. The renovations were done by
O'Brian and Taube, a local architecture firm. Also in 1962, the
Library Tower was named McGraw Tower, after John McGraw
(Jennie's father), that houses the Jennie McGraw Chimes.
In 1982, the underground reading room was added, with seating
for an additional 214 students. Designed by Gunner Birkerts, the
addition was financed by Harold D. Uris '25, who gave $3 million
through the Uris Brothers Foundation. The roof of the cocktail
lounge is a terrace with plaques honoring generous doners
throughout Cornell history.