Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library

The Rotunda

Photograph

Contemporary drawing of the Rotunda, with seating for 152

This contemporary drawing shows seating for 152 people in the Rotunda for the grand opening of the library on Commencement Day, June 24, 1915. It was at his ceremony that Mrs. Widener met Dr. Alexander Rice, a famous explorer who received an honorary degree that day. Within a few months, they were married.