Welcome to Your Library
The Oliver Wendell Holmes Library (OWHL) is named for the famous physician, poet, and literary figure, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr., class of 1825. Located at the heart of the Phillips Academy (PA) campus, the OWHL serves the informational needs of the entire PA community.
Like many 21st century libraries, the OWHL consists of more than just the material on our shelves. Though we love providing books, movies, newspapers, scholarly journals, and more to our community, our staff aims to help patrons become more than simply consumers of information. By teaching students and community member how to find, evaluate, and use the right resources, the OWHL is committed to helping the entire PA community become active creators, readers, contributors, and participants in the information and media landscape.
The Oliver Wendell Holmes Library empowers the community of Phillips Academy to learn, discuss, create, and explore. Dedicated to supporting the diverse information and research needs across campus, the Library champions inquiry by providing intellectual support, social opportunities, and a collaborative environment for all.
The current library building was given by Thomas Cochran (class of 1890) and designed by Charles Platt. Cochran named the library for Oliver Wendell Holmes (class of 1825) to remind the students of the alumnus's literary achievements.
Fast Facts
The library was built in
1929.We have over
80,000books on our shelves
You have access to more than three million items from local public libraries and universities through the
NOBLE networkWe're open
85 hoursa week
Our makerspace is called
The NestWe teach over
400 classesevery year
There is still no talking in the
Garver Room