IU Lilly Library marks 50 years with rare items

By Joachim Koch. Jan 18, 2010. 11:00 PM.

Topics: American History, Rare Books

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Indiana University's Lilly Library in Bloomington will host an exhibition of rare books and manuscripts to mark its 50th anniversary.

The items on display from Jan. 22 through May 8 will include George Washington's letter accepting the presidency and a first edition of Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" printed in the 1470s.

The Lilly Library, named for the Lilly family of Indianapolis, was dedicated in 1960, six years after Josiah Kirby Lilly Jr. began donating his private collection of books and manuscripts to Indiana University.

The Lilly Library today contains more than 400,000 books, 7.5 million manuscripts and 150,000 pieces of sheet music.

Source:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-lillylibrary,0,6999878.story

Joachim Koch
Book buyer. Bookseller. Factotum Generalis. Believes in not attempting to be the smartest person in room and enjoys growing success.


 

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