Tales from the Vault – Rare Books
Lincoln Presidential Library’s collection of rare books is the focus of ‘Tales from the Vault’ on October 10th
 

[October 09, 2019]   What qualities define a rare book? Is it age, or value, or maybe the story of who once owned it? The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum will discuss these questions Oct. 10 during a special look at the library’s Rare Book Collection.

This “Tales from the Vault” event features some of the most fascinating volumes in the library’s holdings: books for peasants and presidents, miniature books, oversized books, books adorned with illuminations, gildings and velvets, and even a book bound in python skin.

The free presentation, offered in conjunction with the Illinois State Museum, takes place at noon, Wednesday, Oct. 10, at the presidential library (112 N. Sixth St., Springfield).

“It’s humbling when you consider how many lifetimes these books have survived, and I’m thrilled to be part of ensuring that these resources remain accessible to scholars for years to come,” said reference librarian Meghan Harmon, who selected the books for the presentation.

Harmon will also share information on how to access the library’s collections during a research visit.

The presidential library and museum uses a combination of rigorous scholarship and high-tech showmanship to immerse visitors in the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can see ghosts come to life on stage, watch TV coverage of the 1860 presidential election, roam through the Lincoln White House, experience booming cannons in a Civil War battle and come face to face with priceless original Lincoln artifacts.

The library holds an unparalleled collection of Lincoln books, documents, photographs, artifacts and art, as well as some 12 million items pertaining to all aspects of Illinois history.

For more information, visit www.PresidentLincoln.illinois.gov. 

[Christopher Wills]