A catalyst for learning and intellectual engagement, the new Charles Library cultivates and supports scholars and the scholarly enterprise, connecting people and ideas in a compelling resource- and service-driven environment. Calling its diverse communities together for inquiry and exploration, interaction and study, this evocative building inspires the discovery, creation, preservation, and sharing of knowledge.

Designed by world-renowned architectural firm Snøhetta in collaboration with Stantec, a local leader in design and construction, Charles Library makes a bold statement to current and potential students and faculty about Temple’s commitment to education and scholarship. And it will realize our broader vision of creating community and making learning exciting and accessible.

Upon entering Charles Library, you will find specialized spaces including the Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio, the Special Collections Research Center, and the Student Success Center. You can also visit the One Stop Assistance desk or watch the BookBot in action. 

Explore the library’s abundance of new study and gathering spaces, including the 24/7 study area, large and small group study rooms, the 3rd floor open reading area, the 4th floor quiet reading room, the 4th floor faculty and graduate study area, the programming and event space, and the terrace.

Since 1989, Snøhetta has established itself as a world-famous practice of urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, and branding design. Based in Oslo, Norway and New York City, the firm has a variety of international projects and clients. Snøhetta is a leader in the design and construction of innovative new models for the 21st century cultural memory institution. Their work in the field includes museums, cultural institutions, libraries, and galleries as diverse as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina; the James B. Hunt Jr. Library at North Carolina State University; the expansion of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; the pavilion at the National September 11 Memorial Museum; the New National Gallery and Ludwig Museum in Budapest; the new central library and plaza in Calgary, Alberta Canada; the Far Rockaway Library in Queens, New York City; and the Museum Ordrupgaard in Denmark.

Stantec believes that communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That's why Stantec always designs with community in mind. They are designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe.

This project provides a unique opportunity to exponentially grow the Library Endowment and provide dedicated, permanent funding for both this world-class building and the services, collections, staff, and programs it houses. Gifts made to name specific spaces will be applied, unless otherwise specified or requested, to the Library Endowment, which supports regularly scheduled operational needs and opportunities as they arise. 

View a full list of naming opportunities here.

A gift toward an endowment is truly an investment in the present and future of Charles Library, as it provides ongoing support that benefits current and future generations of students, scholars, faculty, staff, and community members.

Additional giving opportunities include specific endowment funds and one-time gifts. Learn more about giving to the Libraries.