A unique teaching collection of iconic 20th century chairs. Schedule a visit today!
A collaborative effort between the Sutton Initiative for Design Education (S.I.D.E.) and Salem College, the Chair Library is a unique resource that no other college or university in the country has assembled. Students can touch, sit, sketch, photograph, study, and be inspired by the collection. Located in the Robert E. Elberson Fine Arts Center, The library houses over 40 chairs considered iconic by designers and furniture historians alike. Each chair carries its own mystique, earned through innovative design, material use, technological advancement, and creativity.
Named in honor of Martha Allene Stevens Sutton and the Salem Academy Class of 1971, S.I.D.E. has worked tirelessly to improve Salem College’s design research library. Along with Martha’s husband, Charles, the Suttons have been the driving force behind the Chair Library. The Suttons have also donated their personal library of over 1,000 books on furniture, architecture, design, history, and interiors. This collection is available at the Gramley library on the Salem College main campus.
Providing students and design professionals access to 20th century furniture icons so that they may learn from their histories and be inspired toward future design and refinement.
Library services are free and open to the public. Visits are by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled via email at [email protected]
