The Geisel Library is a marvel in architecture—the first two floors form a base that supports the geometrical 4th through 8th floors. It is located at the heart of UC San Diego in California. The majestic structure can be viewed from Interstate 5 in Sorrento Valley.
In addition to its unique architecture, the Geisel Library houses more than 7 million materials and is listed in the top 25 public academic libraries. The study spaces are conducive to getting the most out of your quiet time.
Geisel Library - one of the highlights of 10 Things to Do Off the Beaten Track in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)
Geisel Library San Diego highlights
The Geisel Library Building's carillon sits on the roof above the high towers. The carillonneur plays the chimes on the hour during the day, starting at 7 am on weekdays, and has short concerts each weekday at noon. Additionally, the chimes are played for special occasions like the first and last day of classes. Song requests can be made to the carillonneur.
Some of the notable collections the library houses are an impressive poetry collection, one on Western history, an Eastern Asian collection, and a Spanish Civil War collection.
photo by FASTILY (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Good to know when visiting Geisel Library San Diego
There is a snake path that connects the Warren Mall and the Geisel Library Building with a small garden filled with fruit trees that you won't want to miss when visiting.
Tours can be scheduled with at least a 3 days advanced notice on selected weekdays and times. The tour lasts 30 to 45 minutes and introduces the architecture and library services. Maps of the campus can be found online, and guest parking is paid hourly from a pay station or your mobile device through the parking app.
Geisel Library
Location: 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
Phone: +1 858-534-3336
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