Old Main Library
423 Central NE, 1925, Arthur Rossiter

The original portion of the Old Main Library was constructed in 1925 on a parcel of land donated to the city in 1900 by Joshua and Sarah Raynolds. The library was designed by Arthur Rossiter and includes interior decorations by prominent Santa Fe artist Gustav Baumann. The 1890 brick school building on the property (the first Albuquerque Academy) served as the city library from 1901 to 1924. Additions, including Botts Hall at the front of the early building, were completed in 1947 and 1951, but much of the original form and detailing—both interior and exterior—are still apparent. Local architect Gordon Ferguson designed the additions.

The building is an excellent example of Spanish-Pueblo Revival architecture. The parapet, central bell tower, corner buttress towers, protruding beams, and entryway with exposed beams and corbel brackets are design features consistent with this important regional style. The original Prairie-style windows are relatively rare in Albuquerque.

Interior detailing includes heavy wooden columns and beams, and two corner fireplaces. Mr Baumann's decorations were restored in 1977, and can be seen in the main reading room along the walls and at the top of each post.

Old Main was renamed the Special Collections Library when the new main library was opened downtown in 1975. It houses major research collections in genealogy and New Mexico history, as well as a museum of the history of books and printing, the Center for the Book. It is open to the public during posted hours.