Theodore M. Hesburgh Library

The Theodore M. Hesburgh Library at the University of Notre Dame is the main library and the centerpiece of the university's spacious main campus. It was named after the university's president, Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh, who served as president of the university from 1952 to 1987. The library consists of forty-one levels and nine underground floors with a total of 4.6 million volumes of books and periodicals. Its distinguished architecture and design has become a symbol of the university. Its exterior features a tall copper dome, sculpted statues of figures from Irish culture and history, a labyrinth garden, and a towering limestone cross at the entrance. Inside, visitors will find over a million photographs, artifacts and documents, an art gallery, and special collections of Open Bible and Catholic literature. The library also houses a café and has an auditorium for lectures and symposia. A great place to explore, the Hesburgh Library will leave any visitor with a lasting impression.