Buswell Memorial Library

Completed in 1975, the new wing of the library was named in honor of Wheaton's third president, Dr. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr. Buswell served as a chaplain during World War I, where he was wounded and was awarded the Silver Star. He spoke at Wheaton's Fall Evangelistic Services in 1925 and was so popular that the students petitioned to invite him back for another week. He was then asked to became President in April 1, 1926 after the death of Charles A. Blanchard in December 1925. Buswell served as President until 1940. During those years enrollment tripled and the college received full accreditation.  Students first signed the "pledge" during Buswell's administration. The Library underwent several renovations (1999 and 2006) to meet the increased demands of technology, the growth and influence of the Internet and changes in student learning styles.