Fisher Fine Arts Library, originally the University library, was rechristened the Furness Building when the University's main collection moved to the new Van Pelt Library and the old building was turned over to the Graduate School of Fine Arts. It was renamed again to honor the generosity of Anne and Jerome Fisher in 1991.

Designed by Frank Furness, the renowned Philadelphia architect, it was completed in 1891. This work was a breakthrough for modern architecture and an important step in the evolution of library design. Furness designed this innovative structure to be the first library with a specialized reading room, lit by skylights and clerestory windows, and a detached book "stack," specifically designed for the fireproof storage of books.

For much of the twentieth century, the Furness building was harshly criticized for its rebellious, unconventional style, a response that led to the later neglect and destruction of many of Furness' other buildings. The Fisher Fine Arts Library is considered by some to be the quietest place on campus to study. Its most recent claim to fame: a scene from the movie Philadelphia was filmed here.