McPherson Library (1964 and 1974)

Architect: R.W. Siddall & Associates
Second Stage Architect: Siddall Dennis Warner

This is a four-storey reinforced concrete building, the first storey being below grade and an office penthouse on the roof. It is no symbolic accident that this temple-like form dominates the academic quadrangle. The library is the functional core of academe. The most impressive feature is a series of bas-relief pre-cast concrete panels designed by B.C. sculptor George A. Norris. These are hung forward of the building allowing the otherwise rationalist international style glass and aluminum curtain wall to skirt the functional structure. The attic storey is given a sculpted frieze, also by Norris. At ground level the building rests solidly on a rough granite ground floor podium. There is a glass mosaic panel in the main lobby was the work of Margaret Peterson. A major addition was finished in 1974 on the north side doubled the size of the Library and further replica Norris panels were applied preserve the design integrity.