On March 20, the University Libraries hosted “Fine and Rare V: New Acquisitions in Libraries Special Collections.” At the virtual event, Curator of Special Collections Sam Lemley introduced some of the notable historical treasures in the collections. A recording of the event is now available.
As a whole, Special Collections is envisioned as an interdisciplinary workshop where humanistic modes of inquiry combine with innovative tools to study historical technologies, books, and artifacts. The diverse and valuable collections fuel transformative exhibitions, groundbreaking research, and other programs that bring students, scholars, and members of the public into Special Collections and CMU’s Libraries.
In “Fine and Rare V,” Lemley shared new and unique highlights from the Libraries' collection of rare books, artifacts, early scientific instruments, and calculating machines. Attendees learned about areas of collection strength, ongoing research, and instructional programs in Special Collections. They also received a sneak peek at the future of the collection — including the reimagining of the Posner Center as part museum and part laboratory for the humanities, thanks to a generous gift from the Posner Foundation of Pittsburgh.
If you enjoyed this event, please consider supporting the Libraries with a gift to the Special Collections Acquisition Fund. Your donations fund acquisitions that make possible transformative exhibitions, research, and other programs that bring students, scholars, and members of the public into Special Collections and the Libraries.