Instructor: Lilla Vekerdy & Leslie Overstreet
Location: Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Washington D.C.
Mode: In-person
Dates: August 14 – August 18
Tuition: $1200.00

Description

This course will focus on varied representations of scientific knowledge in primary sources, especially in rare books and manuscripts.  The students will not only view classics of physical and natural sciences from the 13^th to the 21^st centuries but will gain hands-on experience with all the materials displayed.  Comprehending content (text and image) with the aid of targeted questions and discussion will lead to analysis, and—by the end of the course—an overview of the changing theoretical approaches and practical methods of documenting science.  Aspects of paleography, typography, illustration techniques, the structure and materials of the book, and binding-related issues will be emphasized.  The course will primarily build on the holdings of SLA’s Dibner and Cullman Libraries, will also encompass in-depth viewing of the Nature of the Book exhibition, exploring digitization projects, and visits to the rare and special collections of the Library of Congress and the Dumbarton Oaks Library and Archives.

Requirements

Offered

2023

Credit

Completion of this course helps to meet requirements for one of the following certificate requirements:

• a History of the Book course for Certificate in Rare Books and Manuscripts, or
• 1 of 3 elective credit courses for Certificate in Rare Books and Manuscripts, or
• a History of the Book course for Certificate in Librarianship, Activism, and Justice
• 1 of 2 elective credit courses for Certificate in Librarianship, Activism, and Justice