The Edward L. Doheny Jr. Memorial Library, situated at the University of Southern California (USC), is a notable landmark on campus. Commissioned by oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny in 1932 to honor his late son, this library is renowned for its striking Romanesque Revival architecture. The building’s facade, with its rounded arches, pale brick, and limestone, reflects Northern Italy’s Romanesque style. Statues of Shakespeare and Dante welcome you at the entrance, and the marble above the doors depicts a teacher with students. On the ground floor, the library houses 20,000 books and archives related to film and music studies. The second floor features USC Special Collections, which includes rare books and archives. Doheny Memorial Library has been featured in movies like The Graduate and Matilda. Its lush gardens and classic architectural details make it a fascinating destination for visitors and scholars.
Website: libraries.usc.edu
Phone: (213) 740-2924
Cross Streets: Between S Hellman Way and Path To Ssi
3550 Trousdale Pkwy, University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA 90089-0014 ·2189.78 mi
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Edward Doheny established his wealth in the oil business after drilling the first successful oil well in Los Angeles in 1892. After the late 1920s death of his son by shooting, Doheny made philanthropic endowments to numerous causes. This beautiful library is the result of one such, built in 1932 as a memorial to Edward Jr. Elaborate decorative features are its hallmark. Readings rooms are magnificent with ornate ceilings and lighting. An Academic Museum is hosted in the grand faculty hall. It gives an interesting account of the university, including notable teachers therein such as the famous composer Arnold Schoenberg.
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