A reception for the exhibit is planned for April 19 at 3 p.m. in front of Archives & Special Collections on the third floor of the library, room 321. Refreshments will be served.

Students in Linster’s class are exploring the history of early modern books and their production. They are learning about the physical features of book objects, such as the difference between folios and octavos and the process of making paper. Archives & Special Collections is supporting the students’ coursework by providing examples of early modern books from the 17th through the 19th centuries for the students to examine.

The students’ interest in damaged volumes and their preservation has led them to curate this exhibit of well-used books from the Archives’ collections.

“A broken book is a sign of a book well used. Our display functions as a reminder that books are meant to be interacted with and explored. Though these books may seem in rough shape, their condition illustrates the history of their use,” said in a statement made by Linster's students. “Seeing the state of these books opens up discussion about the different ways we interact with books, not only for entertainment, but for practical use as well. Special collections serves as a place for the preservation and careful handling of these delicate books, allowing curious readers to examine objects and knowledge from a time long since past.”


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