Rotunda

https://www.lehigh.edu/~asj316/linderman-tour/rotunda-stacks.jpeg

The most recognizable space in the library, and probably on the whole campus, is the Linderman Library Rotunda. The rotunda dates back to the library's original 1878 construction. During the 2007 renovation, the rotunda was restored to how it might have appeared at the time of its opening. Much of the rotunda is original, including the iron structure, wooden floor and bookshelves, and the spiral staircase.

https://www.lehigh.edu/~asj316/linderman-tour/rotunda-spiral-staircase.png

A favorite of Lehigh students, the spiral staircase leads up to the second and third floors of the rotunda.

Look down

At the bottom of the staircase you can look into Lucy's Cafe, located on the ground floor.

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Look up in the rotunda

You will see the library's iconic stained glass dome. The rotunda and dome have been featured on lists of the most beautiful libraries in the world and has been an answer on Jeopardy! Look around the rotunda and you will notice that motifs in skylight match railing and column grillwork.

https://www.lehigh.edu/~asj316/linderman-tour/rotunda-glass.jpg
https://www.lehigh.edu/~asj316/linderman-tour/rotunda-tile.jpeg

The bookshelves in the rotunda provide unique study spaces for up to four students per table. Also of note is the white tile around the outside of the rotunda. In 1878, the library was illuminated using gas lights. This white tile acted to reflect this gas lighting and was also designed to be fireproof, since books and open flames don't mix.