Neilson Library
A Destination Library for a Destination College
The transformation of Smith’s century-old library into a modern, multifunctional teaching and learning center was completed in the spring of 2021. Designed by Maya Lin, the bold, energy-efficient, light-filled library is a technology-infused hub that features two new wings, dubbed “jewel boxes,” that offer access to special collections—the Sophia Smith Collection, Rare Books and College Archives—and spaces to support active learning and scholarship as well as entrepreneurship and innovation. The new Neilson Library also includes a café and digital media hub that brings the community together.
As we celebrate this new space on campus, we are actively developing innovative library programs and services that will transform teaching, learning and research at Smith. Can you join our efforts? Your gift to support programming initiatives and services in the new Neilson Library can be designated to a range of funds, from ensuring Smith has access to cutting-edge technology to growing and protecting our special collections.
Tour the new Neilson! Join Nyla Conaway ’23 and Jess Buslewicz ’22 as they take you on a video tour of the new Neilson Library.
Smith College Libraries are developing state-of-the-art programs and services that will transform teaching, learning and research at Smith.
Endowed Funds: Gifts of $250,000 or more will generate income toward a designated libraries fund and place the donor's choice of name on that endowment in perpetuity. See pdf above for fund details.
Annual Giving: Gifts of any amount can support the libraries through The Smith Fund's Neilson Library Fund designation. Certain programs can be supported directly by gifts of $50,000 or more.
Planned Gifts: These gifts include those created through a will, living trust, retirement plan and more. Some tools such as gift annuities create an income stream to the donor or a designee. Funds start at $250,000. Please inquire.
Learn more about the giving opportunities: Library Programming and Services Brochure (PDF).
For opportunities to support programming and services at the library, contact:
Betsy Carpenter ’93
Associate Vice President of Development
413-585-2052
ewcarpen@smith.edu
The Academic Heart of Campus
“I appreciate the little moments of joy throughout the new Neilson Library: Maya Lin’s original sculpture, the outdoor terrace, the sunken garden ... There’s so much to experience.”—Kathleen McCartney, president emerita
EXPLORE THE LIBRARY
