William Cullen Library
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The William Cullen Library is a library located on the East Campus of the University of the Witwatersrand, in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. Opened in March 1934, it stands as one of the university’s oldest and architecturally distinguished buildings, now serving as a research and special collections hub.[1]
The library was constructed to replace the university’s original library, which was destroyed in a fire in Central Block on 24 December 1931 along with the law library and half of the Gubbins Afrikana collection were also destroyed.[2] The new building was designed by the architectural firms Emley and Williamson in association with Cowin and Powers. The foundation stone was laid on 10 April 1933 and the building officially opened by Prince George, Duke of Kent, on 12 March 1934.[1] In March 1974, the university named the building in honor of Dr. William Cullen (1867–1948), a Scottish-born chemist and metallurgist who played a key role in fundraising and reconstruction efforts after the fire.[3]
Architecture and design
The William Cullen Library is one of only two buildings in South Africa inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles, though the design is interpreted in a more restrained manner. Its façade features a prominent Ionic-columned portico, flanked by tall windows on either side, and is designed to complement the classical features of Central Block.[citation needed]
Internally, the main reading room is a double‑volume space lit by clerestory windows, with flanking single‑volume reading areas and carefully arranged furniture for natural lighting. The basement originally housed stacks and service areas, and while interiors have evolved, the architectural essence largely remains unchanged.[1]
