Sawyer Library at Williams College is a go-to spot for students and staff alike. The library was built in 2014 and merges with parts of Stetson Hall—which was constructed circa the 1920s. This library blends the culture-rich hall with modern, innovative architecture. The authentic preservation of Stetson Hall adds a great deal of character to Sawyer Library. Its design was actually formulated by a combination of faculty, staff, students, and more for over 10 years. The library boasts an extensive amount of open lighting via many windows. The space also functions as an academic workplace where visitors can collaborate and socially interact, cultivate critical thinking, and bolster creativity. 

Beyond Stetson Hall, Sawyer Library also encompasses the College Archives, the Center for Educational Technology, and Chapin Library. About 600,000 books can be found here. The area for special collections has an original copy of the Declaration of Independence (there’s only 26 known to exist including scraps) and George Mason’s copy of the Constitution complete with original annotations. There are over 350,000 visits annually to Sawyer Library as well. It was even ranked third in the entire country for “Best Library” by Princeton Review. Rare and dated books sit alongside cutting-edge technology—including digital collections. 

About 10 minutes from Sawyer Library is Field Farms—also in Williamstown. This location is great for hiking and exploring nature, with more than four miles of trails. There’s more modernist architecture here—although much older—via two preserved houses on the premise.