A Living Shrine for Books

On the third floor of the library of the university where I teach is the enchanting Rare Book Room. As visitors walk in, they are surrounded by gorgeous antique wooden tables, comfortable old-fashioned sofas and chairs, windows overlooking a green vista of the city, display cases with ever-changing exhibits, and a large, authentic printing press. And, of course, everywhere, there are books in beautiful old-fashioned cabinets. This is where old, rare books and book-related items are kept. Although they cannot be checked out, they can be looked at, and looked through, in this beautiful, inviting room. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the Rare Book Librarian encourages visitors to enjoy the room and its contents. As part of a library orientation every semester, I take my students to this special room, and the Librarian shows them such artifacts as ancient stones with hieroglyphic writing, beautiful aged scrolls from China, pages from a Gutenberg Bible, books that are art objects in various unexpected shapes, and more. He also explains how the printing press works, and tells them about the special collections of the works of various authors. The students are always impressed with the room and with these displays. I never tire of visiting this living shrine to the history and variety of the written word.