1879 Sen. Justin S. Morrill supports a separate building to be located east of the Capitol. The Joint Select Committee on Additional Accommodations for the Library appoints three architects to investigate the feasibility of enlarging the Capitol for the use of the Library. They recommend against the idea. John L. Smithmeyer is appointed architect of the building, and clearing of the site begins in October. 1887 Principal excavations completed, but work stops while cement for foundation is tested.
Work begins on laying the foundation of the building.
Bernard Green is appointed superintendent of construction in March, but work is stopped in June by a vote of the House of Representatives. Smithmeyer is dismissed as architect, and Paul J. Pelz, his former assistant, is put in charge. Paul J. Pelz is dismissed as the architect in May, and in December Edward Pearce Casey, the son of Gen. Thomas Casey, is appointed architect and placed in charge of all interior design and decoration. The last stone in the superstructure is set in place on July 7. 1896 Gen. Thomas Casey dies in March, and Bernard Green is given responsibility for completion of the building in April.