J. Willard Marriott Library

Amidst the bustling campus of the University of Utah, rises a beacon of knowledge, the J. Willard Marriott Library. It’s more than just a library. It’s a time capsule, preserving the echoes of Utah’s vibrant past and whispering secrets of literary giants. The J. Willard Marriott Library first opened its doors in 1968, a five-story structure brimming with over a million volumes. It was a haven for 3,000 students, offering a quiet space amidst the academic fervor. The dedication ceremony was graced by Wallace Stegner, a Pulitzer Prize winner and University of Utah alumnus, whose personal papers now reside within the library’s walls. Just a year later, the library received a generous gift of $1 million from J. Willard Marriott, Sr., himself an alumnus, and his wife, Alice Sheets Marriott. This act of philanthropy led to the library being renamed in his honor. The J. Willard Marriott Library continued to grow, almost doubling in size in 1996 to a sprawling 488,000 square feet. This expansion included an impressive multimedia center and miles of shelving to house its ever-expanding collection. The J. Willard Marriott Library also houses Special Collections. These collections safeguard unique documents, photographs, films, and more. They offer a glimpse into the history of Utah, the Mormon faith, the American West, and the Middle East. Within these collections, you’ll find the papers of influential figures like Marriner Stoddard Eccles, former Chairman of the Federal Reserve. You’ll also discover documents from David O. McKay, a former President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even the papers of Leonidas Ralph Mecham, a former Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, are preserved here. The library underwent another transformation between 2005 and 2009. This multimillion-dollar renovation enhanced the building’s seismic stability. It also improved accessibility and environmental controls. While the renovations were extensive, the J. Willard Marriott Library remained open to the public throughout the entire process. This dedication to accessibility speaks volumes about the library’s commitment to serving the community. Today, the J. Willard Marriott Library stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and philanthropy. It’s a place where history comes alive, where stories are preserved, and where learning continues to flourish.