Aye Simon Reading Room 

The Aye Simon Reading Room is an education resource center for all visitors. Located on the second level of the museum’s spiral ramp, the reading room provides a contemplative space in which to learn more about the Guggenheim collections, architecture, current and past exhibitions, and modern and contemporary art.

Designed by internationally renowned architect Richard Meier, the reading room was made possible by a grant from the Esther A. Simon Charitable Trust. Esther Simon, known as Aye Simon, was an artist, collector, and influential steadfast patron of cultural institutions. The reading room was originally intended by Wright as a room for archival storage and research. It was converted by Meier in 1978.

The signature keyhole-shaped entrance denotes that its resources are keys to knowledge. The interplay of curving spaces and natural light elegantly reflects Meier’s respect for Wright’s vision. As architecture critic Paul Goldberger noted, “what is most impressive of all here is how Mr. Meier has managed to keep Wright’s spirit and mood without ever directly imitating his forms.”

The Aye Simon Reading Room is open to the public Friday–Wednesday, 10 am–5:30 pm.