Houghton-Medieval Studies Lecture in Early Book History: William (Bill) P. Stoneman, “For Purposes of Investigation or Instruction” and Opening Reception for Incipit

Date and Time

February 10, 2025
05:30PM - 08:00PM EST

Location

Edison and Newman Room, Floor 1, Houghton Library, Harvard Yard (open to the public)
Houghton Library and the Standing Committee on Medieval Studies present William (Bill) P. Stoneman on “'For Purposes of Investigation or Instruction': The History of Collecting Medieval and Renaissance Manuscripts at Harvard."

In building Harvard University’s collection of medieval and Renaissance manuscripts, both private collectors and university librarians have played important roles. This lecture reviews some important acquisitions and reflects on changing collection development polices and some missed opportunities. It is also intended to function as an introduction to I
ncipit: A History of Early Manuscripts at Harvard and an extended example of provenance research, which will be the subject of the associated workshops.

Afterwards, join us for the opening reception from 7–8 PM in the Edison and Newman Room. Beverages and hors d'oeuvres will be provided. Registration is encouraged but not required.