Home Tags Posts tagged with "Rare Books"
Tag:

Rare Books

Education

The Library of Congress: A Monument to Democracy and Knowledge

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

The Library of Congress: A Monument to Democracy

History

The Library of Congress, the world’s largest repository of knowledge, has evolved far beyond its humble beginnings as a collection of books. Today, it houses a vast array of materials, including sound recordings, digitized collections, and even telephone directories.

Jefferson’s Legacy

The Library of Congress owes its existence to Thomas Jefferson, who sold his personal library to the government in 1815 to help rebuild the collection that had been destroyed by the British Army during the War of 1812. Jefferson’s vision for the library was to make it a resource for all Americans, regardless of their background or location.

Growth and Expansion

Over the years, the Library of Congress has grown exponentially, both in terms of its collections and its physical presence. In 1897, the main library building, now known as the Thomas Jefferson Building, opened its doors to the public. This iconic structure is adorned with ornate ceilings, plush reading rooms, and artwork by American masters.

Digitized Collections

In the 1990s, the Library of Congress embarked on a massive digitization project to make its collections more accessible to the public. Today, millions of books, manuscripts, and other materials are available online through the library’s website.

Crowdsourcing Initiatives

The Library of Congress has also embraced crowdsourcing to help digitize its collections. In 2018, the library launched Letters to Lincoln, a project that invited the public to transcribe scanned pages of President Abraham Lincoln’s correspondence. Over 2,800 volunteers participated, helping to make these important documents digitally accessible.

Educational Ideals

The Library of Congress is more than just a repository of knowledge. It is also a symbol of the nation’s commitment to education and democracy. The John Adams Building, which houses the library’s rare book collection, is inscribed with Jefferson’s words: “Educate and inform the mass of the people… and they will preserve them.”

The Thomas Jefferson Building

The Thomas Jefferson Building is a testament to the nation’s educational ideals. Its elaborate Corinthian columns, sculpted figures, and vibrant murals depict the evolution of knowledge and the importance of literacy. The building’s design reflects Jefferson’s belief that the library should be a place where all Americans can come to learn and grow.

Impact on American Society

The Library of Congress has played a vital role in American history and culture. It has preserved the nation’s literary heritage, provided access to information for scholars and researchers, and inspired countless writers, artists, and musicians. The library continues to be a vibrant and dynamic institution, dedicated to serving the American people and promoting the ideals of democracy and knowledge.

The Library of Congress Today

Today, the Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with over 25 million books and 170 million other items in its collections. It is a global leader in digital preservation and access, and its online resources are used by millions of people around the world. The library also continues to host public programs, exhibitions, and lectures, making it a vital part of the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Cultural Heritage

The Carnegie Library Rare Books Theft: A Devastating Loss for Pittsburgh and the World

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Carnegie Library’s Rare Books Theft: A Cultural Loss

The Oliver Room: A Treasure Trove of Rarities

The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh houses a hidden gem known as the Oliver Room, an exclusive space that safeguards rare and invaluable books, atlases, and artifacts. Entry is strictly limited to scholars and researchers with prior appointments due to the immense value of the collection.

The Shocking Discovery

In the spring of 2018, during an insurance appraisal, the library made a startling discovery: 314 precious items had vanished from the Oliver Room. The theft sent shockwaves through the community and the world of rare book collectors.

The Stolen Treasures

Among the stolen items were nine books printed before 1500 and a first edition of Isaac Newton’s seminal work, “Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica.” Other notable losses included a first edition of Adam Smith’s “The Wealth of Nations.”

The Investigation

The Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office swiftly launched an investigation into the audacious heist. The Oliver Room, once a haven of tranquility, was transformed into a crime scene, closed off to the public.

The Value of the Lost Knowledge

Rare book dealer Michael Vinson estimated the value of the stolen items to be “easily worth” $5 million. Suzanne Thinnes, library spokesperson, lamented the cultural significance of the loss, stating, “This is an immense cultural crime.”

Inside Job Suspected

Library officials believe the theft was likely perpetrated by someone familiar with the Oliver Room and the library’s operations. This suspicion aligns with the findings of Megan Cottrell, who reported for American Libraries magazine that many library thefts are “inside jobs.”

Collaboration to Recover the Stolen Goods

The Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America (ABAA) was enlisted to alert its members about the stolen items in the hope of facilitating their recovery. The ABAA’s extensive network of collectors and dealers increased the chances of locating the missing treasures.

Rare Book Theft in Pennsylvania

The Archives, Library, and Museum Protection Act of 1982 made library theft a criminal offense in Pennsylvania. This law underscores the importance of protecting valuable cultural heritage from theft and vandalism.

A Community’s Loss

The theft of the rare books from the Carnegie Library dealt a significant blow to the Pittsburgh community. The stolen items held immense historical and intellectual value, enriching the lives of researchers, scholars, and the general public.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the Oliver Room theft continues, and authorities remain hopeful that the stolen treasures will be recovered. The library and law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore the stolen knowledge to its rightful place.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Literature

Rare Dictionaries to Fetch a Fortune at Bonhams Auction

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Rare Dictionaries to Fetch a Fortune at Auction

Bonhams Auction to Offer $1 Million Worth of Rare Lexicography

On December 4, bibliophiles and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on a remarkable collection of rare dictionaries at Bonhams in New York City. The auction, valued at close to $1 million, features over 200 lots from the collection of the late Thomas Malin Rodgers, Jr.

Gems of Lexicography

The auction offerings include a diverse array of linguistic treasures, including:

  • Blackguardiana: or, A Dictionary of Rogues, Bawds, Pimps, Whores, Pickpockets, Shoplifters… (circa 1793): A fascinating glimpse into the underworld of 18th-century London.
  • Sixteenth-century B.C. Cuneiform Tablet: An ancient artifact bearing the earliest known form of written language.
  • Late Thirteenth-century Italian Manuscript of Papias the Grammarian’s Dictionary: The only known copy of this seminal work, which predates Samuel Johnson’s dictionary by centuries.

A Websterian Manuscript

No dictionary auction would be complete without a nod to the father of American lexicography, Noah Webster. The offerings include a handwritten manuscript page from Webster’s first edition American Dictionary (1828), featuring definitions for various “B” words.

Provenance and Significance

The dictionaries in this auction come from the esteemed collection of Thomas Malin Rodgers, Jr., a renowned bibliophile and collector. His discerning eye for rare and important works has resulted in an auction that promises to attract collectors from around the world.

The Magic of Dictionaries

Dictionaries are more than mere reference books; they are portals into the evolution of language, culture, and society. They preserve the words and phrases that shape our understanding of the world around us. The upcoming auction at Bonhams offers a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of this rich linguistic heritage.

Unveiling Linguistic Treasures

Each dictionary in the auction tells a unique story. The cuneiform tablet whispers tales of ancient civilizations, while the Blackguardiana dictionary exposes the hidden corners of a bygone era. The manuscript of Papias the Grammarian’s dictionary showcases the origins of modern lexicography. And the Webster manuscript page provides a glimpse into the mind of the man who shaped the American vocabulary.

A Collector’s Dream

For collectors, this auction is a dream come true. The rare and valuable dictionaries on offer provide an opportunity to acquire pieces that will enhance any collection. Whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or a budding enthusiast, the Bonhams auction is sure to offer something to ignite your passion for the written word.

Preserving Linguistic Legacy

The auction of these rare dictionaries not only offers collectors a chance to acquire unique pieces but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our linguistic heritage. Dictionaries are the guardians of our language, and they deserve to be cherished and passed down to future generations.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail