Paul Barrret Jr. Library

The Paul Barret Jr. Library, established in 2005, serves as a cornerstone for academic research at Rhodes College, aligning with faculty research interests and student educational demands. A collaborative design effort led by Hanbury, in partnership with Shepley Bulfinch, resulted in a 136,000 square-foot nexus of knowledge, featuring comprehensive facilities such as IT and administrative offices, classrooms, and media suites, alongside versatile study spaces and a 24-hour lounge. At its inauguration, the library's extensive collection boasted 278,392 volumes, over 1,159 print and 42,983 electronic periodicals, and significant digital and physical media resources, positioning it as a pivotal academic and technological hub.

Architecturally, the library is a tribute to Rhodes' rich heritage, integrating symbols of tradition in its stone carvings and stained glass. Its 120-foot tower, inspired by the Fibonacci sequence, and the Axminster wool carpet adorned with the school seal, showcase historical reverence. Meanwhile, the celestial ceiling in the apse and a stone portrait of President Dr. William E. Troutt infuse the design with personal and historical depth.