Sponsored by Michael R. Weintraub and Washington Art Library Resources Committee (WALRC)
Speakers:Neal Turtell, Executive Librarian, National Gallery of Art
Mark Dimunation, Chief, Rare Book and Special Collections Division, Library of Congress
Vanessa Haight Smith, Head, Preservation Services, Smithsonian Libraries
Moderator:
Bill Baxter, President, Washington Rare Book Group / Head, History and Culture Department, Smithsonian Libraries
The greater Washington DC region is host to a wide range of world-class libraries, many of which hold specialized and rare book collections. Taking advantage of the area's wealth of collections, specialists, and enthusiasts, this panel will address fundamental issues in special collections and rare book librarianship, including conservation and preservation, acquisition, security, and handling and use.
Presenters will also address issues and arguments regarding whether rare book material should be part of the library's collection or the museum's. The panel will also investigate the book as object vs. the book as information. Presenters will also focus on collections and materials that can later be visited by attendees at the respective libraries that are easily accessible in downtown DC. The session is intended to both provide an introduction to rare book collection issues by experts in fields while showcasing local collections.
