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The Monihan Atrium
The dramatic glass-enclosed atrium that anchors the east end of the Geschke Center honors Fr. William J. Monihan, S.J. The atrium, located at the heart of the lower campus, features 5,000 square feet of open space punctuated by two handsome balconies.
The zinc roof echoes the dome of St. Ignatius Church, clearly visible through the faceted glass walls. The Monihan Atrium provides library users with a quiet place for study and contemplation as well as a centrally located space for occasional University functions.
Fr. William Monihan was the founder and driving force of the original Gleeson Library. During his 47 years of service, first as University librarian then as director of library relations, he saw the collection grow from some 20,000 books to one of more than 600,000 volumes. He was instrumental in developing the Donohue Rare Book Room, dramatically increasing the library's endowment and founding the Friends of Gleeson Library volunteer support group. Fr. Monihan's dedication to the University and his deep love of books shone through his modest demeanor.
The Friends of Fr. Monihan Committee was formed to raise sufficient funds to name the atrium after Fr. Monihan. Led by Ricky Curotto, BA `53 JD `58, and Dr. Albert Shumate, `27, the Committee's success in gaining support from a large number of donors is a further tribute to the inspiration Fr. Monihan has been for generations of students, colleagues and collectors of fine books and printing.
A painting of Fr. Monihan by Furman J. Finck, the father's personal favorite portrait, hangs in the atrium with the following inscription:
Reverend William J. Monihan, S. J. 1914 - 1996. Jesuit, University Librarian, Bibliophile, San Franciscan, Caring Friend to Many
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