My most recent Charlottesville discovery occurred just yesterday at UVa’s Special Collections Library. My art history discussion group went on a field trip of sorts to examine 13th and 14th century Early Christian manuscripts, and I was surprised to learn about the broad range of literary and historical texts that the University possesses. Our class studied Christian prayer books with lambskin pages and golf leaf drawings. I couldn’t believe I was touching something so old and precious! Medieval works are only one group of works in the system. The Special Collections Library houses a collection of William Faulkner’s works, many of Thomas Jefferson’s letters and architectural sketches, and the largest collection of American literature in the world! A docent explained to our class that because UVa is a public institution, the collections are available to students and the public. The ancient texts and documents are kept in a climate-controlled room below the quad in front of the Special Collections and Alderman libraries. Do people know what they’re walking over as they walk to buy their daily Greenberry’s?!? Not only is this a great addition to Charlottesville, but its not going anywhere! Check out the website and you’re sure to find pieces of the collection that interest you.
http://www2.lib.virginia.edu/small/
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