The Fisher Fine Arts Library is housed in the University's first library building, built in 1888 from the designs of architect Frank Furness. A flamboyant Victorian building, the Library was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1985. Its restoration by the architectural firm of Venturi, Rauch and Scott Brown has won national honors.
The Teaching Seminar Room, prominently located on the main floor of the Fisher Fine Arts Library, is used for classes, meetings, and seminars. With four arched windows overlooking College Hall Green, the room is a handsome space fully equipped with high-speed internet connections and multi-media capability.
Generous supporters of the University, Mr. Davis has served on the University of Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Advisory Board, and Mrs. Davis has been an alumni interviewer for Penn applicants and President of Florida's Gold Coast Penn Club.
"The University of Pennsylvania holds a special place in our hearts, and we wanted to give a tangible gift in appreciation," said Joel and Lissy Davis. "A library is central to any great university, and we knew the Penn Library was an appropriate place for our gift. We hope that many students will enjoy the room and its lovely view overlooking the Green."
Carton Rogers, Past Vice Provost and Director of Libraries, said, "Joel and Lissy Davis share with us our vision of the Library as central to teaching and learning at Penn. We are very grateful for their generosity."
