Rare Books Virtual Lectures

The philosophy behind the Rare Books Department has long emphasized the importance of the book as a physical object. Some of the most meaningful interactions with our collections occur in the classroom, where students are able to hold history in their hands. We extend our reach with a series of virtual lectures -- part of our commitment to provide reference, research, and educational access for students, faculty, and community members. 

WHAT MAKES A BOOK RARE? 
A look into some of the criteria that determine what makes a book rare and how the Marriott Library gets its rare books – featuring examples  from our strongest collections.

A NETWORK OF LACUNAE: A VIRTUAL HISTORY OF THE BOOK 
A brief history of the book which explores how literary networks can spread across time and space – from early Babylonian writing systems to 21st century artists books.

A LIVING AND INTENSE INTIMACY
An exploration of early manuscript book design and its lasting influence on printed books, which continues to this day. Although new technology changed the way books were produced, the general purpose of books remained the same: a conscientious determination that the written word was accessible.

INHERITANCE
Discover thirteen books from the seventeenth through the early twentieth centuries representing European scientific, political and literary attempts to understand the universe and humanity's place within it.

CUENTOS DE MATERIALES
An introduction to artists’ books celebrating the Spanish language and Hispanic, or Latinx, and Chicanx culture.

THE ARTISTS' BOOK IN PRACTICE: A RARE BOOKS GUIDE TO... 
A simple, step-by-step guide to help transform your creative writing into an artist’s book, featuring examples of artists’ books found in the rare books collection...