The iconic Suzalo Library is undergoing a $21.5 million seismic improvement and restoration project

Widely recognized as one of the most beautiful and architecturally significant university libraries, Suzalo has inspired students and faculty since its completion in 1926. Its soaring arches, intricate stonework and beloved reading room attract visitors from around the world. But those same delightful details, such as parapets, capitals and statues, also pose a danger.

“In a major earthquake, pieces of this construction could break off and fall,” says Andrew Ellis of GLY Construction, manager of the $21.5 million seismic improvement project. “They become projectiles.” When the 2001 Nisqually earthquake shook the area, Suzzallo held strong structurally — but four decorative capitals fell 70 feet, crashing onto the steps below.

The Suzalo Library, with its iconic facade, is undergoing a $21.5 million seismic improvement and restoration project. Scaffolding and nets cover the outside of the building for safety.

The library’s renovation is focusing on its oldest wings, dating from 1925 and 1935. Crews sew the building together with thousands of steel nails so that the layers of brick, sandstone, clay and cast stone can move together during seismic activity. The towers are reinforced from the inside, the ends are bolted to the roof, and Ben Franklin and the other seventeen exterior statues are bolted into place.

With scaffolding already installed, the project became a rare opportunity to give the century-old exterior a long-overdue update. The crew tackles decades of dirt and cracked masonry while removing ferns that have taken root in the damp cracks. Roofing is replaced. Even the 35-foot-tall leaded and stained glass windows are getting attention.

At its peak, dozens of workers, ranging from builders to structural engineers and conservationists, joined the effort. But when the scaffolding is finally put in place in late 2026, their efforts should be almost invisible. And just in time to celebrate the structure’s centenary.

Now the nets and scaffolding are worth it, says Pascual Contreras, UW project director. “We are preserving the building for the next 100 years.”

The Fuzzy Shock Base contributed to this story.

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