On Books and Biblios

Book Shops on a Maine Highway--Route 1

2012-01-10T15:08:00.014-06:00

"Book" is the new "Silk"

Of course we're all familiar with the famed and legendary "Silk Road," but perhaps less familiar with the not-so-famous or legendary "Book Road." Then again, this road may be famous inside the state of Maine, but not outside. Nonetheless, even if the locals have not officially named Route 1 along the state's coast "Book Road," I will give it that distinction. The interesting thing about this road is that it goes through some very pretty country, but is still in some parts rather rural. Yet, it has developed a book culture along its thoroughfares. Here is why this is interesting, and why I think some sociological speculation must come into play here for a few moments: in all of my travels around this country, I've rarely--if ever--seen a stretch of highway that boasted so many book shops or book sellers as Route 1. So what could be the reason?

Background: Once again, I was out driving back from a trip this summer, when I came through Bar Harbor. My schedule was tight and I was attempting to get back to NY within the course of one day (which, by the way, such a trip is a bit of a hike, and ended up taking me nearly 12 hours.) So pulling out of Bar Harbor and heading southwest on Route 1, I drove down the highway and passed through some lovely little old towns and villages. But every so often I would pass by a sign that read "books." And here is where the biggest irony or paradox came--here I am, the great book lover and searcher of off-the-beaten path book shops, and because of my crunched schedule, I couldn't stop at almost any! But it's no problem, because a) I can always go back, and in fact, make a trip of just that "book trail," and b) I have too many books as it is!--oh, and c) I'm a librarian for goodness sake!--what do I need more books for!?

Okay, so back onto Route 1: it's a splendid road, with some great views, especially the architecturally fabulous bridge near Fort Knox State Park, in Bucksport, ME. As I drive onward, with my nose and stomach fixed on finding "Maine's Biggest Lobster Role," which each successive road side shack and seafood restaurant was boasting, I began to realize that there weren't just "a few little bookshops" along Route 1--there were legions of them! Something wasn't quite right here...or maybe it was TOO right! I was both surprised and delighted to find this new "book highway" (perhaps the old fashioned version of the "information superhighway," except this was Route 1, and the houses and Queen-Anne's Lace were nicer than the internet.) This "bookway" then had me thinking--why on earth are there so many book shops here? Usually there'd be lots of antique shops, but book shops?

I then realized that the answer might just be found in looking at the demographics of the area--what is Maine, after all, especially in the summer and on the coast...but a tourist destination for New Englanders, especially Bostonians.

To explain this phenomenon a bit further, let me go back to some of my earlier bookish peregrinations. A few years ago, I was living in Chicago, and decided to visit Macinac Island (pronounced "MACK-in-aw") in northern Michigan. The distance between Chicago and northern Michigan is quite long--about 400 miles on the highways (one way!), and about 450 on the back roads, especially those along the western shores of the state overlooking Lake Michigan. Of course, on the way up, I took those back roads, mostly Route 31 north to Traverse City. The curious observation I made on this trip through Michigan, up to Macninac, was in the antique and book shops that I visited.

There were several antique shops, which I certainly found interesting, but also some curious book shops (one of the best was in a tool shed, off some side road, that I found while driving back to Chicago--and I bought a reasonably priced copy of Capote's "In Cold Blood" for ~$3). The thing I found odd about all of the book shops I visited in western Michigan was that a) the quality of books was rather low or average--and by "low or average," I mean the books were either romance novels or run-of-the-mill pulp, fiction and self-help books. Almost nothing in classic literature, no best sellers in non-fiction, or anything that gave a hint of the odd, the interesting, or even the foreign. There were no books in other languages or even translated from other languages. It was mostly bland fare. Now the other thing b) was that many of these books were way, way overpriced...as if the dealers and book shop owners thought their books (especially old books) had some intrinsic value based on their antiquity--even with mold and other things growing on them!

I would have thought this a fluke, to be seen at just one antique shop with its book stalls. But as the trip through Michigan went on, I consistently found that book stalls in antique shops and book stores were all pricing their books very, very high. I remember finding some grimy and stained old volumes of some Churchill histories running for near $30 a volume! And they weren't even close to half that in actual value. Perhaps the best part of the biblio-adventure was the discovery of a book sale at the public library located on the quaint and old fashioned, but rather well-to-do Mackinac Island. The residents, presumably of some means, as well as the visitors, some of whom shell out more than $600 a night to stay at the island's more posh hotels, would also have some interesting reading tastes, that might reflect their stations in life. Curiously, again, though there were some better books to be found in the Mackinac library--I bought McCullough's "Truman" (a beastly size, but good read) and Galsworthy's "Forsyte Saga" for mere change...probably a couple of dollars--the interesting thing was that the majority of the books I found were not exceptional or out-of-the-ordinary. It was more of a "Nora Roberts Library." Nothing against Nora Roberts, of course. I think the tone, though, was "power suits, in--Pickwick, out."

After that great Macinac trip, I thought for a long time about this: how come the quality of the books was so "average?" Perhaps the only other great find on that trip was at another library book sale. I don't remember the town that it was in, but I do remember that the best book at the sale--probably containing a few thousand books on its sale tables--was a Jane Smiley novel! (And I bought it!) Back to Maine, now. Driving down Route 1, and suddenly realizing the proliferation of book shops on this highway made me think back to that Michigan trip. But my thoughts about Michigan and about Route 1 in Maine were thoughts of contrast. Back in Michigan, the western shores of the state are, for many, a getaway from both Chicago and Detroit--and probably some other large midwestern cities. Many of those who go to these places are wealthy, or have to be, in order to afford some of the magnificent waterfront homes and condos that line the shores. In short, people come here to "chill out" and "relax," and not necessarily to read. But does that explain it completely?

Not really. I think it goes back to the locations of these places, and the culture of reading that exists in these two locales. Maine is and has traditionally been a place of refuge for New Englanders and Bostonians, groups who have a long history of intellectualism, historical memory, and family lineages. I'm sure there is more to it than simply these three things, but that academic culture seems to carry itself north in the summer. If you have droves of professors and university-level professionals running to the craggy banks of the Atlantic coast in Maine each year, they are bound to be carrying the newest, best, most classic texts with them, but also wanting to leave some behind, as well as find a few more books to read. And since Route 1 is "the" road of access to many of the greatest ocean vistas and summer rentals, it only makes sense that a culture of reading, books, book shops, and well-funded public libraries would emerge, grow, be fostered, and prosper in these hills leading to the sea.

The midwest's history is not as old in these terms...in fact New England has a good 200 year lead. And the culture is noticeably different when we look at book shops and libraries, what they carry, hold, sell... . These places are microcosms of the towns, states, and regions they are in. If you ever want to see if a place is a good fit for you to live, check out the libraries and book stores. I guarantee that you'll get a better sense of the place once you've visited one.

New Brunswick Library, Books--And the Longest Covered Bridge in the World

2012-01-10T15:00:00.010-06:00

Books and a Really Long Bridge!

On a drive last summer through the wilds of New Brunswick, I happened to read a sign that said "World's Longest Covered Bridge." Of course, how could I resist this!? Finding my way through some small Canadian towns and back country roads, following signs that read "Bridge This Way!"...I eventually came down to a river crossing and the one-lane covered bridge, which spanned it.
The bridge is found in the town of Hartland, NB, and crosses the Saint John River. In order to cross the river (and go through/over the bridge!) you need to wait for a light, because it is only one lane. You must turn your lights on and cruise across the rickety structure for more than 1,200 feet! It is surely an experience not to be forgotten. On the opposite side, there is a visitor center, which is packed with regional information, moose, hockey, and maple leaf trinkets (like magnets, shot glasses, and bottle openers), and bottles of maple syrup. There are also lots of tourists...and a fair number of books for sale on regional interests--cooking, local history, and ghost stories. I bought a book on the history of the bridge and some books on New Brunswick place names and their origins.

On the opposite side of the road, just a few hundred yards from the tourist shop, there was a grand old building that had been turned into a library-- the Dr. Walter Chestnut Public Library. It wasn't open, but I did take a few photos of it. I'd say that this was a good find--out in search of the world's longest covered bridge, I was able to buy a few regional books (one of my favorite activities), stock up on surely needed maple sweets for the drive, and photograph a stately old building-turned-public library (which even had a clock in its tower!) What more could I have asked for?

Mary Jane Books -- Cobleskill, NY

2011-12-11T17:27:00.013-06:00

Books in the Attic?

Perhaps one of the little known secrets about book shops is that some of the best, and I mean very best book shops are not to be found in the big cities...but out in the countryside. Now, I know there will be some folks that will say, "but the Strand is the best!" Okay, NYC book shops can be behemoth in size, but places like the Strand (which I like), are often way over priced. The point of going to book shops, especially "used" book shops or any other second-hand store that sells books is that you can find great deals. If you don't want deals or the joy of the book hunt, well, then go to Amazon, aLibris, or your local Walmart. But if you are up for some bibliographic fun, and are simply entertained by the peregrination factor involved in searching for bookish places, then the country book shop is for you.

The added element of these country book shops is that they all have their unique flavor--their shops have some sort of curiosity, flare, and personality. From the proprietor and/or owner, to the cats perched up on window sills, or Labradors curled into wintery warm fur pillows on knitted rugs. I'm also a fan of book shops, which have couches and lounge chairs--as long as they're not covered with dust mites or bed bugs or too much cat hair! But back to more pleasant topics: these local book shops can be great, and pleasant finds. A few months back I was driving through Cobleskill, NY...on my way to Brooks BBQ in Oneonta--which if you haven't tried it, you must! But back in Cobleskill, there is an old book shop that I just adore, called Catnap Books, on 574 Main Street. I've been going there for years, and have found some excellent books there at very good prices.

This time through, I discovered a new place called Mary Jane Books, which apparently has other "branches," even though it's a used book shop. (I should say that there are some other notable examples, such as Powell's Books in Chicago, which is a used shop--and probably my all time favorite book shop--but has several branches). Mary Jane Books may not have the variety or even gravitas of Catnap, but it is a fun little place, and is located at 509 W. Main Street, just down the street. I think, as I have been visiting and reviewing the book shop culture for some time now, that these shops do best where there are colleges and universities--for obvious reasons. And I think that anyone interested in this sort of business would be wise to start up such an enterprise in just such an area.

The link to Mary Jane Books can be found here:

http://www.maryjanebooks.com/

The Cobleskill branch is small, and is located in a space, which looked to be above a garage...in what felt like an attic! But there was plenty of parking and the interior was pleasant and inviting for readers. And there was ample light (natural and otherwise) for sitting and going through a few volumes. There were some deals to be had here, for sure. So if you're in the Cobleskill area, stop off and visit these great little book shops.

Oblong Books--Millerton, NY

2011-12-11T17:25:00.006-06:00

Bookshop on the "Borders"

I've often wondered where the name "Borders" came from (as in "Borders Books"), and simply considered it had something to do with the "limits of our imagination." No such luck. In fact, it turns out that "Borders" was simply the last name of the brothers, Tom and Louis, who started the first "Borders" book shop back in 1971 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Though nowadays, with the corporate amalgamation that this humble shop became, Borders Group, in fast decline and bankruptcy, the only borders we may speak of are the old ones which limit time and space. This came to mind recently, when I went to visit the small, yet delightfully old fashioned town of Millerton, NY, which has a great number of specialty shops and eateries (somewhat like Woodstock, NY--but slightly different). Millerton is on the "border" of New York State and Connecticut, and among its featured businesses is Oblong Books (see above), which also has a branch in Rhinebeck, NY. This family owned business sells mostly new books, but still has the flavor of a locally brewed book joint, with affable and knowledgeable staff. They seem to promote community in various ways, including hosting readings and other events on a pretty regular basis. So if you're ever in town--Millerton or Rhinebeck--stop by one of these shops and take a look!

Woodstock, NY Bookshop

2011-12-11T17:23:00.005-06:00

Just Passing By...

Occasionally, I'll find a bookshop worth mentioning, and offer it up for readers--without much commentary. I discovered this shop in Woodstock, NY a few months ago, nestled between the other interesting shops of the town. There are many curious places to see in the area, both in terms of retail shops and cultural activities. There are also quite a few good eateries in town. As usual, check it out!

Another Closing: Remembering Merritt Books in Redhook

2011-12-11T17:18:00.014-06:00

How Many More...!?

It seems like every time we turn a corner, another book store closes. I know that over the last few years, as I've been exploring book shops, libraries, and other bookish things, I've covered or reported on the closing of a handful of such locales--the Mercury Cafe Lending Library in Chicago, the Theological Library in the Chicago Convent, the Barnes and Noble in Lincoln Center, the majestic seminary library of Mt. Saint Alphonsus, and others. This story is now about a year old, as it was probably last January or so when I came across this book shop, Merritt Books, in Redhook, NY--not far from Rhinebeck, NY, where Oblong Books still survives. As I drove by the store, I saw signs that read something like "Going Out of Business," so I went in and inquired.

And so, it was true. And what I found were mostly empty shelves--shelves which once held hundreds, maybe thousands of books. And though it had not closed completely yet, they were now selling off their shelving units, at varying prices, but somewhere in the area of $100-$400. There were still some items left, but not many. The shop itself closed just a few weeks after my visit. Luckily, it was only this location that closed, I later found out. There is now a Merritt Books in Millbrook (not Millerton, where Oblong is). As the market for bookshops tightens with online book shopping, there is a hope that they may find a specific niche, which will help them flourish. And there book shops that ARE flourishing. We just need to keep visiting them.

Forgotten and Other Seminaries (Part 3): Catholics and Unificationists

2011-12-11T11:49:00.033-06:00

Interesting Histories: From Private Estate to Religious Institutions

The small hamlet of Barrytown, NY, is bound on one side by the great Hudson river, and lies squarely within the historically rich confines of a once immense land grant owned by the Livingston family, on the eastern shores of the river. For centuries, literally, this land was held by the Livingston family, gradually broken up into smaller parcels. So, in usual fashion, one share of this land went to a Livingston descendent, who decided to build a fine estate. As we find in one Dutchess County local history account about John R. Livingston:

"In 1797 he built a marvelously elegant mansion, called Massena after one of Napoleon's great generals. (Massena House, today part of Unification Seminary, stands on the site of the original 18th-century mansion.) Its central feature was a splendid glass-domed library. Perhaps in later life he had time to read the books in his excellent collection, but for the next 25 years, as in the preceding 25 years, he scrambled for money so fast and furiously that it is hard to imagine him sitting quietly for more than a thumb-through." (Full Article)

That said, he and his descendants lived in the Massena House for the next century, until the death of its last owner around 1903. In fact, there are two images below, which show the Massena House as it looked at the turn of the twentieth century, in an ad for its sale (note there is an expansive lawn from which the image was taken), and another photo, which I took just recently, from inside of the present seminary.

Between 1903 and ca. 1930, the house was owned and inhabited by other parties, of which I have yet not identified. But it is clear that, probably in the late 1920s, the owners of the estate sold the property to the Catholic Church (unless it was acquired by the church at a much earlier time--this would have to be researched further). In 1930, the St. Joseph Juniorate and Novitiate in Barrytown, operated by the Lasallian Christian Brothers, opened. This Novitiate, run by Lasallians (often indicated by FSB

-- Fratres Scholarum Christianarum--after their names), was an educational institution, which ran until 1973, and within two years was sold to another religious organization. The original building structure is still in use, by its successive property owners, the Unification Church of Sun Myung Moon, and was made into the church's seminary.

The day I visited, it was in great part by accident. I had been visiting a nearby town, and was driving near Barrytown. I saw a sign on the road for the Unification Theological Seminary, and had recalled various unclear visions of the so-called "Moonies" (a term which is pejorative, and not used in any positive way), whom I'd come in contact with as a child in the late 70s and early 80s--a time which was probably the height of their Public Relations battles. Nonetheless, I'd always been intrigued by the seminary, which I'd never visited. And so, on this cold winter day, I decided to venture in and see what I could find.

Entering through the front gate--which was now empty, and boasted a cutout of Santa Claus--, I first drove around the estate, which has both paved and dirt roads, and wends through the hilly terrain of the old Livingston estate. Regal barns and other out-buildings still dot the landscape amid oaks, pines, and locust trees, bending down to the earth like old men with canes, who'd been there for countless generations, watching children play and grow in the grassy fields. Coming back toward the front of the seminary, across from the old Massena House, I curiously found a woman and some children doing garden work--in the cold of the December weekend.

I pulled in and parked, and got out to speak with the woman. I asked her about the seminary and if there was a chapel that I could see. She told me to enter a side door, and take a look for myself. So I did. It was still a bit cold inside, and somewhat castle-like. When I finally found where I was going, I discovered a marvelous old chapel, that in some ways had been reduced in size--at least by its chairs. There were no pews, just a few rows of chairs, a grand piano, and some instruments along with sound amplification hardware. Symbolic flags hung from either side of the chapel, and off to the right, in a corner, there was an alter, with a Bible to one side, framed squarely with the famed photo of Rev. and Mrs. Moon--he standing and smiling, she regal in her golden imperial dress.

I walked around a bit more, still rather cold. The sound of youngsters ricocheted through the corridors, and soon I saw a handful of kids, probably between 9 and 15 year olds, running down the hallways and into the chapel. They came in and started playing songs on the piano, as I made my way out. In one hallway, I discovered some display cases of books--"New Arrivals at the UTS Bookstore" a placard read. There were books, but also mugs reading "UTS" on them. Behind another door, which led down an interior hallway, I found a door and a sign that read "Bookstore," but there was no indication that it was open or even operable any longer. Especially since the institution's main facility is now in Manhattan, according to both the people I spoke with at the seminary that day and their website, it seemed likely that the operations of the Barrytown location were winding down.

As I walked around a bit more, this realization became ever more apparent, when I cam upon another display--this one of images accompanied by evocations of religious profession by the Rev. Moon. It showed the Reverend with congregants reliving biblically imagined fishing expeditions in the Hudson River, right off the property to the west, down a slight and rolling hillside. The images are extraordinary, in many ways, not in the least that they convey a time and a place in the religious explorations of the 1970s, that were somehow almost impervious to the mass suspicion that technology and communications of today bring to religious claims. In some ways, that period still allowed myth making or king making or religion making in a way that would be almost impossible today.

The great curiosity of this intriguing band of religionists is still enshrined in this weathered temple of theological education and its surrounding buildings. And four-decade-old remnants are still here to be found, for now--with kind, quiet, and pleasant people living and working here.

From what I understand, the library no longer operates, and the main library and book center, for curricular needs has shifted south to NYC.

Heading out, that morning, I drove around the estate-turned-campus, with a slight sense of melancholy. With a sense that religious institutions have always gone through transitions, but with more issue and trouble in the last hundred years; and even more in the last twenty years. Technology has moved us away from the physical school, the physical realm of education in many ways, to a sphere of all-information, all over the place, all of the time.

We could just imagine some young novices, during the old Lasallian days, wandering from one statue to the next, one station of the cross to the next, in these magnificent old Livingstonian fields, with the warm breeze of spring, and the flight of some robins nearby. Each young learner imbibing the majesty of place and the power of nature.

Now, we might wonder if place even matters any more--at least in our quest for understanding education, especially theological education.

Presbyterian on Rye?

2011-12-11T10:01:00.006-06:00

Even Calvin Would Be Speechless!

I saw this in Washington Heights last month, while walking one Saturday with my co-worker Matthew. I'm not even sure how to respond to such a cultural delicacy as this. Though, my only real guess is that there is a committee running the place. Or else they accept laminated pages of the Institutes as legal tender.

Anyone for a little General Assembly with that pastrami?

Subway Preacher

2011-12-11T09:58:00.006-06:00

Book in Hand, God in Mouth

Another preacher on the street...or more accurately, in the subway. I caught this one as I was heading home one day. They often congregate by the Port Authority and other high density pedestrian areas. This subway preacher was reading loudly from the Bible (in hand), as the throngs of people came and went.

Night Time Street Preacher in NY

2011-12-11T09:27:00.006-06:00

Preaching God at Night

I'm not sure what this fellow was actually preaching, because he wasn't very easy to understand, but he did have this look in his eye like he was possessed, while shouting something like "God will heal you!" It was loud, erratic, and staccato'd in its delivery. He carried a book, which looked like a Bible. And when I stopped near him, he had a blank stare, as if he were blind....or possessed! He then handed me a pamphlet about alcoholism, and then continued his walk and shouts of godliness.

A Curious Bodega: Open or God?

2011-12-11T07:46:00.006-06:00

Are You Open? Sorry, We're God!

I had to share this unusual shop sign, which I passed by last month in the upstate town of Troy, NY. I was walking around the downtown area and spotted this little bodega, which was closed. But instead of there being a "CLOSED" sign, there was this crudely made sign right smack in the middle of the door that read "YHWH." I'm not even sure what kind of social commentary to add here, because this totally surprised me. "YHWH?" I mean, if you weren't expecting it, and couldn't read Hebrew, my guess is that you might think it reads "CLOSED" in another language. But I'm sure there is some deep theology going on here, but it is clearly esoteric, and cannot be had by us mortals in our quotidian rummaging in upstate cities.

I know that Augustine said something about God's hiddenness and presence being wrapped up into one. But clearly, God...or YHWH is not hidden here, for our bodega friends. Maybe this is some sort of anti-theft device: "Yeah, we're closed, but guess what? There's a God of the Hebrew Bible hiding inside, watching you!" Maybe the sign is supposed to read like a "Beware of Dog!" sign. Except...yes, I'm sorry to say... it's really "Beware of God!"

It's your call, readers.

Adventures in French Canada: Book Shops and Libraries

2011-11-13T08:51:00.009-06:00

A Photo-Essay of French Canada

I thought I'd share a few more images from the trip I mentioned in the previous post--some of the variety found in French Canada. The first is from Montreal, the next ones from Quebec City, and the last two photos are from the public library in Rimouski, on the Gaspe peninsula.

Muse'e de la Gaspesie Centre d'archives

2011-11-13T08:33:00.011-06:00

A Curious Place in the Wilderness

This summer I had the opportunity to do some research in a part of the world that is not commonly known to most Americans--the Gaspe Peninsula. Though it is quite far away, roughly a good day's drive northeast from Quebec City, it is a place that is rich with French Canadian, Native-First Peoples, and other cultures. Very few people, whom I encountered, spoke English, and I met no Americans. But the place of Gaspe in history is rich in many ways, including being the location of Marconi's first maritime transmitting station (at Pointe-a-la-Renommee).

The people were very friendly, and the cuisine was a fine blend of wilderness, seafood, and continental fare, all with a suitable touch of French cooking magic. The museums and the Centre d'archives were quite interesting and held many unique materials pertaining to the area. There was even a great book store selling cookbooks with cuisine gaspesienne. The land, the sea, the mountains, the fields--all of the natural space of Gaspe is a wonderful experience. I don't recall when I first came across this land on some maps, but I know that a few years ago, I discovered an old book at some shop or thrift store entitled "Away To Gaspe," by Gordon Brinley and illustrated by his partner, Putnam Brinley.

Traveling north to the great Peninsula in the depths of the Great Depression, the Brinleys went from the White Mountains up into Quebec, and stopped at some of the places that I eventually saw. In their book, they write about such places as St. Edouard-des-Mechins, Cap Chat, Petite Madeleine, Perce, and Bonaventure Island. Perce is one of the most intriguing and amazing places in North America, far away from any large city, even though there is a growing crowd during the summer. And Forillon Park, which is a few hours drive north of Perce, is one of the most incredible geological sights (and sites) I've ever seen--something like a Yosemite in the sea! Its perilous cliffs shoot up hundreds of feet, almost bending backward like an arching cupcake, but far more beautiful and stunning when seen from across the north bay at sundown or sunrise.

If anyone is adventurous and interested in exploring the far north, this is surely a place to visit. And I think you will be most surprised and delighted to find both a bounty of natural beauty and a rich culture in a state of wilderness.

Books on the D&H Canal

2011-11-13T08:01:00.006-06:00

Hidden in the Woods

One of the interesting things about American history, especially topographical American history and American transportation history, is that many of the remnants of these histories are buried in unseen places, by roadsides, under brush, in the woods. The D&H canal, originally designed and built to transport new types of coal from the hinterlands of 19th century Pennsylvania to New York City, via the Hudson River, was a vital link between various worlds of the young United States. From 1828-1898 the 108-miles of waterway operated and served a large and growing population. Once it closed, the canal fell into disrepair, and was forgotten by many. It was 68-years later that the D&H Canal Historical Society was formed and steps were taken to help preserve and bring the canal back to life (to some extent).

There is a fine museum that now accompanies the canal, in High Falls, NY. It is a wonderful little museum, which I encourage all to visit and support. In it there are various maps, artifacts related to the canal, photographs, and tools, among other objects and items. There are also several books and even a book shop.

The last two photos below are part of the canal itself: a stone "post" where ropes ran along, the barge itself being pulled by donkeys or other means. The final photo is a remaining portion of the canal, which now terminates in the center of High Falls itself.

A Trip to the Folger

2011-11-13T06:21:00.004-06:00

Manifold Greatness

In September of this year, I had the opportunity to visit the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC. Our library, the Burke at UTS and Columbia University, was a recipient of a grant and a traveling exhibit about the creation and afterlife of the King James Bible now celebrated on its 400th anniversary. The exhibit was called "Manifold Greatness." I decided to drive to DC, and while I was there I participated in lectures, discussions, and workshops dealing with the King James Bible, the traveling exhibit, and how to deal with the receipt, assembly, and packaging of the exhibit. It was a good time, and I met a number of interesting and engaging folks on this trip. Above all, the staff of the Folger are really helpful, knowledgeable, and pleasant to work with. So if you are ever in the DC area and have some interest in Shakespeare, check out what this library has on display or in its gift shop.

John Burroughs' Reading Nook!

2011-11-13T06:12:00.003-06:00

Just in case you're lost in nature, and you needed to find a place to read..., well no more worries! This was taken by my mother at a local nature center.

Library Hymn Sing at a Glance

2011-11-10T21:22:00.007-06:00

Shhhhhh! This is a Library, We're Singing!

Going through a few thousand photos of the last year--yes, the digital camera has created far too many photos in this world!--I began to set aside some images related to books, libraries, and reading for the blog. And I realized that I hadn't had a chance to share an image of the Burke Library hymn sing, from April 2011. The hymn sing was an idea I devised as a compliment to a rare books exhibit I'd put up in February dedicated to famed 19th century hymn writers and composers Lowell Mason and Thomas Hastings--both of whom had connections with Union Theological Seminary. I'm not sure when the last time there was music, let alone singing, in the library and reading room, but it was surely a success, with requests for more concerts at the Burke. I organized another concert, which happened on Nov. 1st, and included a harpist-singer-composer, interpretive reader, and saxophonist. As we move forward with music at the Burke, we hope to also have a second hymn sing for Advent in December. The hymn sing was conducted by Yale music professor, Patrick Evans.

Stone Relief of Book and Reader

2011-10-29T21:34:00.005-05:00

If Walls Could Talk...or Read

I've driven by this many times in Hudson, NY--a relief of a person reading, on the side of a wall, which I believe used to be a school. I finally took a photo of it last week.

Forgotten Seminaries (Part II): The Jesuits and the "CIA"

2011-10-16T17:33:00.008-05:00

A Hidden Mystic

Last month I was at a meeting of theological librarians in NYC, and somehow in conversation one of my colleagues from Fordham University commented that the famed Jesuit anthropologist and writer Pierre Teilhard de Chardin was buried in the Hudson Valley at what is now the Culinary Institute of America. I was both shocked and puzzled by this, but it soon became clear why Father Teilhard had his final resting place at perhaps one of the most famous cooking schools in the United States. At the turn of the 20th century, a Jesuit named Father Purbrick purchased land in the area of Hyde Park, NY--which happens to be in the same area as the Roosevelt family, and FDR's own estate to the north. In 1903, the plan for a Jesuit seminary and novitiate with imposing, yet beautiful structures, came to fruition, and a group of Jesuits from Frederick, MD left their locale behind and went north. The seminary was to become one of the major Jesuit centers in the northeast for more than half a century. Yet by the end of the 1960s, it had
dwindled and the school closed in 1969, selling its property to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). The CIA itself now has an impressive food and hospitality library, which was named for Conrad Hilton (see images). But returning to Teilhard: the famed and often controversial Jesuit, who traveled to the far ends of the earth, and who has influenced generations of both the religious and non-religious was buried among his colleagues and co-religionists here, as the school was still an active Jesuit institution. I'd first heard of Teilhard de Chardin about 18 years ago, in college. I had to do a paper on him, but I had no idea how to find his works, because I didn't know how to spell his name! A professor simply said to me "why don't you write about so-and-so." In my college library, the Jewish Studies librarian knew exactly what I was looking for, and pointed me in the right direction. I ended up writing a paper about the mystical elements of Teilhard's writings around omega point and the evolution of spirituality. Though, I haven't revisited much of Teilhardian thought in the subsequent years since that paper, his curious and provocative writings still intrigue. So when my colleague in NYC brought this to my attention about his burial site, I had to check it out. When I went to the Culinary Institute of America, I discovered the cemetery was hidden in a wood behind a parking lot. I had to speak with campus security, who swapped my photo ID for a set of keys to the locked gates of the cemetery. There I went in and in the solitude of the woods, with statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary upon a knoll looking down, I saw Teilhard's grave, from 1955. And still, more than a half century later, there were flowers that had been left recently, on his grave.

So even if this is no more a great Jesuit seminary, but instead a great culinary school, there is still that vestige of an almost forgotten theological institution here...and in the quiet woods behind it.

Forgotten Seminaries (Part 1): Hartwick Lutheran Seminary

2011-10-16T17:25:00.008-05:00

Another Curious History

The histories of American seminaries are often forgotten, yet when we dig slightly deeper into these histories, we often find the interesting, curious, and even oddest of stories. Our tale today begins with one John Christopher Hartwick (1714-1796), who came from Germany to the North American continent in the 1740s to serve German congregations in the Hudson Valley. He worked in the town of Rhinebeck for a spell, but his overtly zealous pietism seemed to get him in trouble with his parishioners and ministerial colleagues. Soon he could not keep a job in any congregation, because of his strict preaching and practice. He eventually was able to procure a large piece of land in the area south of what is now Cooperstown, NY with the hopes of creating a utopian society, his "New Jerusalem." He did move to the region, but such dreams of utopianism didn't really come to fruition. When he died in 1797, he left his money to be used to found a seminary. But in an odd twist, the estate of Hartwick was left to one "Jesus Christ." Because of this, the seminary didn't open for nearly two decades after his death. For over a hundred years, this first of American Lutheran seminaries served a population of Lutheran pastors, pastors-to-be, and their flocks, before being closed and then folded into what is now Hartwick College. On a recent trip to Cooperstown this fall, I had a chance to drive by the actual site of the seminary, and stopped in the cool autumn rain to take a few photos. Though the seminary is no longer in existence, this faint reminder shows the partial vibrancy of churches and seminaries during the 19th century. And even if John Christopher Hartwick was unable to create his own "New Jerusalem" utopia, it may be considered by some that there is a bit of a different type of utopia in this valley that boasts the headwaters of the Susquehanna, in the form of Cooperstown and its bountiful environs. For it is a region complete with beautiful lakes, vineyards and wineries, breweries and cider presses, museums, antique shops and barns, and even a seasonal opera house. So even if you don't stop in the hamlet now called "Hartwick Seminary," its neighbors and its landscape are still impressive and inviting.

Books and Bacon in Frederick, MD

2011-10-16T16:57:00.005-05:00

Books and Food

Perhaps two of my favorite things--books and food--I found in and around the city of Frederick, MD. The city itself is very well organized when it comes to history and promotion of its past. There are several interesting places to visit, and many of them have book shops. The first place we see here is the local public library, which is situated right near a canal that runs through town. The other places of interest are the Frederick Historical Society, the Comic Store (if you like comics), and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

There's a nice statue outside of the public library of kids reading. As for food: there are plenty of choices, though I'd recommend taking a drive out of town for some pork belly. Now this is not one of my usual food choices, but if you've never tried them... you're in for a treat. My sole confession here is that I didn't actually get this pork sandwich in Frederick, but a few miles north.
No matter--the whole region is a good place to visit, and I think if you have the time and you're in DC, you should swing by...for books or bacon.

A Confederate Bible

2011-09-30T20:15:00.007-05:00

A Little Bit of Southern History

During some recent travels in the Washington, DC area, I made my way through Civil War country. One afternoon in September, I joined my friend Soren and his family and headed out to a re-enactment camp at the Mt. Zion Church. I was able to visit the old grave yard and church, but was also given a nice demonstration of some battle action. The kind folks of the re-enactment unit also gave us some lessons in old-time equipment, of which the medical tools seemed most interesting... and frightening! I did spot this curious item though: a Bible printed in and for the Confederacy, and I thought this would be a fine addition to the blog and for all my readers.

Books in Kinderhook

2011-08-06T07:36:00.005-05:00

A Meeting With the President

For some time, I've wanted to visit the hometown of Martin Van Buren, 8th president of the United States (1837-1941), in Kinderhook. Well, last month I finally got around to doing so. I drove out to the homestead, but discovered that it was "cash only," (and who carries cash any more!?) I only had enough for an orange soda, which I held off on. So I went back into town, where I discovered some other lovely places (bookish, of course). There I spent the rest of the afternoon visiting the historical society of Columbia County and its magnificent exhibits, and talking with the knowledgeable and friendly docents. There is also a fine little bagel and coffee place in town, which specializes in various flavors of cream cheese. And I ended my trip with a visit to the local book shop, Blackwood & Brouwer Booksellers, where I had a lovely conversation with one of the co-owners. So if you're ever in the area, please stop by and check these nice places out. The images here are part of the historical society's book shop, which is very informative and full of materials relevant to the area and its social, cultural, and political history. Of course, I did get a chance to fulfill that childhood dream of meeting with the president: well, a statue of the good Mr. Van Buren. And look, even his statue is holding some sort of bookish item!

Street Readers

2011-07-23T12:35:00.006-05:00

More Books on the Street

Last summer, I was riding my bike to work in Chicago, and I spotted out of the corner of my eye, a couple of folks sitting on the street reading. It turned out that someone had decided to leave a pile of "free books" for the taking, and these two individuals decided to stop and peruse the selections! I asked if I could take their photo and they obliged. Nothing like free books, eh?

Books of Burma (Myanmar)

2011-06-07T10:51:00.022-05:00

Visiting a Hidden Jewel in Asia

Several months ago, a good friend of mine ("Dr. M.") visited Burma (Myanmar), the quietly off-the-beaten track nation, abundant with rural beauty and mystery. I asked my friend, if she could photograph any books (in Burmese or other languages) or libraries or bookstores, if she encountered any. She did, and more, and today I share these with you.

In these photos, we see everything from Buddhist statues to monks walking down the street. The main book photographs are from a medical library inside one of the regional medical schools in Burma. In these images, we can see everything one might expect in a good library, including an online catalogue and database.

I'm curious as to what other libraries are tucked away in this marvelous country..., but that will perhaps have to wait. The most stunning thing is that this country appears to have magnificent and beautiful sculptures, statues, and temples around every corner. Thanks to my photo-correspondent, "Dr. M." for her marvelous photos!

Now, onward to other interesting biblio-locales!

Books and Fallingwater

2011-06-04T16:51:00.011-05:00

Books in the Woods?

During my travels to the great state of Pennsylvania, I ventured slightly off the beaten path and drove into the hill and wood country southwest of Pittsburgh to perhaps the most famous private home in America: Frank Lloyd Wright's "organically" designed "Fallingwater." It was an incredibly wet day, torrential downpours swept across the southern part of the state. My reservation for the afternoon tour was canceled, but I received a message while still digging through archives back in Pittsburgh that "...even if we've canceled your tour, you can come by to see if the rain has let up, and we may be able to re-schedule you." I decided it was worth a shot, and left the glorious libraries of Pittsburgh for the wilderness of the south.

Luckily, the storms had faded, even though it was still raining. And the eventually re-scheduled the tour. Fallingwater is quite a place. Perhaps my greatest surprise about it was how small the actual home feels (and is). Despite the floor plan and cantilever construction, the inside of the home has a rather small feel to it. This may be partly due to Wright's own feeling toward designing homes with shorter ceilings, constrained hallways, narrow door frames, and broad rooms based on linearity. There's a quote from Wright that is often tossed around and I've heard variations of it at both Talliessen in Wisconsin and here at Fallingwater. The quote is something like "Anything over 6 feet is a waste of space," which figures into the cramped feeling of many of his homes. The image above is a stream-fed swimming pool that is adjacent to the home and has a bulbous Buddha-like sculpture dancing nearby.

Now on to our usual "digression" of books! Photographs are not allowed inside the home, so I was only able to photograph around and outside of it. Luckily, there are many windows, and here we find the only image of books at the residence itself. The bookshelves were designed nicely in the house, I thought. Each unit was made to fit in a space that was usually lower to the ground than, say, chest or eye level. It added to the manipulation of space that Wright was aiming for. There were books on every floor, and the tour groups were told that the former owners, the department store magnate Edgar Kaufmann Sr. and his family, had kept most of their books and furnishings in the home. And most were titles dating from the 1940s-1960s.

The lovely grounds above. Below we find the book and gift shop, located near the parking lot and entrance to the grounds.

It would seem that if books were to go out of style one day, as so many have predicted, because of the e-text, for example, I'd have to say that the combination of "book and gift" shops will remain. Partly because of the role that the book plays "as a gift." I'm not convinced that people are yet ready to accept "virtual gifts" as substitutes. I remember interviewing someone for my library school thesis about the role that books played in our world. The interviewee made a comment that "books as gifts" are special and particular aspects of our society and culture that could not be replicated in e-format. The person explicitly noted "that would be cheap." Something to think about, for sure.

Christian Bookshops in Pennsylvania

2011-05-30T07:55:00.010-05:00

Books and Regionalism

"You are what you eat" is a common, perhaps overused expression. But the same phrase is rightly adapted to books: "You are what you read." The last time I was in Pennsylvania, a year ago, I came across a "Bible Outlet" in Lancaster, PA, which I then wrote about on this blog. So it is no surprise that I'd come across similar shops that sold Bibles, or Bible-related books, or Christian books on a recent trip through Pennsylvania. In fact, the interesting sociological observation here is that bookstores will echo what the reading tastes are of a certain area, and ultimately reflect the larger religious (or secular) demographics of a region. This is why you'll come across almost no major bookstore chains or even book shops specializing in antiquities, rare books, or more broadly literary style shops in more rural areas. But equally, you will find almost no Christian bookshops in NYC.

A month ago, while I was doing a research trip in Pennsylvania to gather archival evidence for an article I was writing on the history of theological education in 19th century America, I drove through some small towns in southern and western Pennsylvania. Somewhere between Butler and Zelienople, PA, I drove through a small place called Evans City, which had a very nice Christian book shop called "Amazing Grace," which appeared to double as a mission center. The last time I'd seen something similar to this was two summers ago when I visited a Christian book store in the suburbs of Chicago called Royal Christian Bookstores (read the post).

A few days later, I found myself stopping in the fine town of Somerset after a rain storm. I drove around briefly and found this unassuming shop, a combo "Christian Book Store and Office Supply." I think you could put any two businesses together and do well, if you sold Bibles or other Christian literature in some areas. My guess is that Bibles sell better than coffee here. Unfortunately, the shop was closed when I stopped, so I didn't get a chance to go in.

On my way out of town, I snapped a photo of the old courthouse. I must say that many of the county seats and larger towns in Pennsylvania had lovely old architecture, which must have bloomed in the mid-to-late 19th century under the gaze of its German and other immigrants. The design is quite formidable, and especially striking when approached from a distance. The contrast of the blue or even clouded sky against such proud edifices set up on the highest hills are quite stunning. Onward now!--to other places, other books. These curiosities prove again the subtle experiment of American reading, set against tilled farm fields, old wood houses, and noble state houses.

Alabaster Books NYC

2011-05-30T07:29:00.009-05:00

Things Like This Just Happen

Last month, when I was walking down to Chinatown from Union Square, along 4th Avenue, I spotted something curious under some construction framing. Of course, for me the word "curious" usually means that it resembles something bookish. And I was right. I crossed the street and found the quaint, little, and book-packed "Alabaster Book Shop." What a surprise and delight. The sad thing is that it is hard to see, though I'd have to guess that locals know the place well. It was a tight space, like any Manhattan business or living quarter. And the books were squeezed into every nook and cranny. Even in the windows, they had piled the books up. I was particularly taken with this massive tome of Armenian-Greek mystic, G.I. Gurdjieff (1866-1949), whose book here "Beelzebub's Tales to his Grandson" is a fusion of Eastern and Western esoteric mysticism--it is also incredibly long and dense, coming in well over a 1,000 pages and joining the ranks of hefty Robert Musil-style books. I'll admit, I have a strange penchant for searching out the plumpest of tomes, as if they're some hidden delicacy, or truffle. So when I find a new one, I think "wow--how did I miss that beast of a book!?"

Already, the mild weather of the spring afforded the book shop to move some of its wares out on the street. Of course, these are usually the "bargain" books, selling often between $2-$5.

Above, we see some of the finer decor of the shop, and a nice old clock on the wall. Though, I think it was wrong! (I was there later in the afternoon, around 5:30PM). Below, we see the construction beams and protective shielding, which make the book shop slightly obscured. It's a good shop. And if you're ever between Union Square and Chinatown, stop by and check it out. There are a lot of interesting and uncommon books to find. And the staff is very pleasant, knowledgeable, and friendly.

Free Books from Jehovah's Witness in NYC

2011-05-30T07:12:00.004-05:00

A Table of Religion

A few weeks ago, I was walking along Broadway outside of Columbia University in NYC, and spotted a table of "yellow books." When I approached, I realized that the three smiling young women were from Watchtower (Jehovah's Witness), and were handing out books titled "What Does the Bible Really Teach?" The interesting thing about these little volumes is that they had them in dozens of languages, from Arabic to Armenian, Chinese to Czech, and more. I took two, an English and Hebrew version, which I will add to the "contemporary tracts in religion" collection at the library that I'm trying to build. I'll have to keep my eyes open for more of these items. In NYC, you can find a lot of this material, but it is often discarded or not looked on as relevant for contemporary collection development. I think it has some value, but that value may come in many years, when scholars are looking to study tracts and religious booklets from the early 21st century.

Lighting Library?

2011-05-28T07:02:00.004-05:00

A Library or Not?

Merchants and sellers of all kinds of wares have taken interesting paths in marketing whatever it is they are selling. But when I was walking to Chinatown last month in Manhattan, down along the Bowery, I came across this startling awning and sign: "Lighting Library." This has nothing to do with books, reading, or libraries at all. It is in fact a lighting store. The owners must have thought that it was a clever alliteration, something catchy that would compete with the other lighting shops in this mercantile district. I wonder if I was the only one to be confused by this name? No matter--they certainly got my attention, even if they didn't get my money!

Funny Book on NYC Street

2011-05-28T06:52:00.010-05:00

The Things You Find...

I was walking on a street near Union Square and 14th Street in NYC not long ago, and happened to stumble across this rogue book on the sidewalk. I had to snap a photo for you all. A curious and admittedly comical cover. "God Bless Joe Papp." I wonder where this book came from, who lost it, or left it!? Joe Papp (1921-1991) was a director and producer of theater.

Another Bookshop Out of Business: Merritt Books

2011-05-28T06:34:00.007-05:00

Another Passing of a Book Store

Merritt Books in Red Hook, NY recently closed up shop. It was one of the book shops owned by Scott Meyer, who recently closed another Merritt location in Cold Spring, NY. I saw the shop in Red Hook about a month ago and thought I'd stop in to pay homage to this soon-to-be-closed bookshop, and document its passing for our readership and the biblio-curious world.

Interestingly, there are other bookshops, which aren't doing so badly in the area. This shop in Red Hook apparently didn't have the foot traffic needed to sustain it. Along with the increasing demands of online or e-text material, especially in the educational fields, which this shop catered to, physical texts weren't making the cut.

On the other side of the spectrum, and not far from Red Hook, in the town of Rhinebeck, there is a book shop called Oblong, which is apparently doing well, in part for its promotion of e-reading and e-books. We'll have to keep our eye on this one. But I hope that those remaining bookshops of the world can sustain themselves amid the difficulties of the market.

Books and the End of the World

2011-05-19T07:49:00.008-05:00

A Photo Essay on Doomsday

They've been handing out pamphlets on the end of the world ("May 21st 2011") for a while down in the 42nd Street subway stop, near the Port Authority, but just days away from the ill-fated day, the prophets were out in force. Here's a view of the dozens of signs in that underground pathway. On my way home yesterday, I witnessed these folks (in bright yellow and orange t-shirts) arguing with a group of youngsters about what will happen on Saturday. Another vision of New York city religion at its best and most visceral. Interestingly, the bright yellow and orange shirts were a new thing--in the previous months leading up to now, they'd all had less "intrusive" colors, and would hand out pamphlets that were white or green. Now, with days away, they've brightened their prophecy with a dash of lemon and orange.

Above, the argument among pro-End-of-Worlders and bystanders.

Westsider Rare and Used Book Shop

2011-04-23T12:36:00.006-05:00

Another Little Bookshop

Perhaps it's not that small. I was on my way to meet up with some family near Zabar's yesterday, and found myself facing yet another little bookshop. "Little" because of its storefront, which appears small. But actually, it seems to have quite a bit of space. Anyhow, as with other book visits and tours, I thought I'd share this nugget of biblio-joy with you all. It's actually located right across from Zabar's on Broadway, near 81st Street. So, if you're ever in the mood for rare or used book shopping, stop on by the Westsider. There's a nice selection of bargain books usually placed outside. I didn't buy anything, but I did spy some decent items there. Along the street on this block, I've often noticed book vendors, who sometimes shrink-wrap their books in winter, to protect them from the bad weather! So there are always books around this area. Plus you're near both an array of coffee shops and Zabar's, which is always a good thing. Food and books, the next best thing to "just books!"

Proust on a Mailbox

2011-04-23T12:29:00.003-05:00

Bookman on a Box!

A few nights ago I was walking along near Union Seminary in NYC, and passed this mailbox with a graffito'd image of Marcel Proust, the writer of writers; author of one of the world's longest novels (À la recherche du temps perdu). And I thought that I ought to snap a photo for my co-travelers in the bibliosphere. There are, admittedly, many odd, novel, and curious things out along the byways and streets. And this seemed to fit nicely into our transient conversations about books. On to the next bit of biblio-novelty!

Bohemian Book Bin

2011-03-28T08:19:00.007-05:00

A Visit to an Off-the-Beaten-Path Book Shop: The Bohemian Book Bin

For some time, I'd wanted to check out a bookshop that someone had mentioned to me last autumn. Over the winter, during one of those quiet, grey-sky weekends, I decided to take a drive to this place--the Bohemian Book Bin, located in Lake Katrine, NY (it was previously located just south in Kingston proper). It's a curious little place, on a side road off of Route 9W. The few times I'd looked for it, I couldn't find it, until someone pointed out the very small, black-and-white sign hanging in a parking lot a distance away from the shop. The sign was at least 500 feet, if not more, from the shop itself. And one cannot actually see the shop from the main road, because it is hidden by a slight hill and rock formation. But if you drive up the side road, you'll see to your right, a little industrial garage style building, with the nice little sign hanging out front, which reads "Bohemian Book Bin."

The front of the building is curiously decorated with an old church pew, an ink-well desk from some old single room school house, and piles of books. As you can see, there was a little snow on the ground the first time I found the place. And still, the books were outside. The shop was closed, and so I had to return another time. When I did I found that the inside looked a bit like the outside in its appearance, a bit grungy and disorganized. This is not to say "totally" disorganized, but books were piled haphazardly everywhere around the store. Admittedly, this sort of bookstore design has its benefits and can be attractive to book-hunters. I know that I like finding little nuggets and goodies in piles of books, that might otherwise be missed. Inside the shop was a little dark and musty, but it had an interesting and otherwise charming feel. They played some good music over the speakers, and the young woman who was the cashier and clerk was friendly and helpful.

The first day I went, the website said they were open, but in fact they had posted some different hours on the door, so when I arrived they were closed. I would recommend people to visit the shop and see what treasures may be had inside. The best sections, in my opinion, were toward the back of the shop, which was in better order. But if you go, give them a call first, to make sure they are open.

Phoenicia Public Library Fire

2011-03-26T20:28:00.016-05:00

Rising from the Ashes of a Library Fire

Early on the morning of Saturday, March 19th, 2011, the Phoenicia Public Library (~13.5 miles from Woodstock, NY) had a major fire, which gutted a good portion of the building it was occupying. An article (see here) appearing in the Daily Freeman newspaper was forwarded to me, and I decided that I'd go up and take a look to see what had happened and what the next steps the town had to resurrect its library. The following Saturday, March 26, I drove up to Phoenicia with my mother, into the cool air of the mountains on an early spring afternoon. The sky was blue and the temperature was probably just ten degrees above freezing. But it was fresh air. And the sun shined brightly.

Driving into town, we actually first found the "new" library, which had a nice big sign out front, and which you will see further down in this posting. The photos you see here are actually from the burned library, mostly out front. It was located on the main thoroughfare going through Phoenicia. The "new" temporary library is housed in an old medical arts building. I went in and found a group of people chatting. I asked what was happening and met the very friendly and helpful local librarian & director, Tracy Priest, who told me that they were trying to get things set up in the building as best as they could. I'll return to this conversation shortly. But I wanted to show some of the original library here at first.

Ms. Priest told me where I'd find the original library, and cautioned me about being careful. So, when I went back onto the main street, I just took photos from the front and side, and didn't go near any of the potentially dangerous areas of the building. Here you can see some of the burned building and materials that were tossed out the side...including some burned equipment, computers, and books.

The front and side of the original library, which burned. Below, a reminder of the "Best Library Ever!" posted in the window, as seen from the front.

Back to the "new" library space (above)--I had a nice conversation with Ms. Priest, and took a quick tour around the nascent little library. Considering the circumstances, the resilience of the Phoenicia Library is remarkable. Though, there were probably only a hundred or so books available, everything seemed to be in full motion--moving toward a well-functioning new library. Above, we see a table with a computer and some welcoming coffee...for visitors that Saturday, when I visited.

Above, a shelf of local and Catskill history. Below, the children's room.

I found the image of the library's logo of a bear reading on some Adirondack chairs quite charming. They put the image on some t-shirts, as well as out front of the new library. See the images below...

Below is the new library location. It was a great pleasure to meet the folks in Phoenicia, and to see what a strong spirit they had after this devastating fire. Phoenicia, which has been known to suffer devastating floods from time to time (as they are located in a floodplain), has been resilient once again after this tragedy.

For those interested in helping, monetary donations can be sent to the Phoenicia Library (Temporary Location), 9 Ava Maria Drive, P.O. Box 555, Phoenicia, NY 12464, or to the website (http://phoenicia.lib.ny.us). See also the Facebook Page "Phoenicia Librarians." If you would like to call the library, the number is 845-688-7811. We wish Phoenicia all the best in their work to rebuild their library and community gathering space!

Kazakh Prison Libraries: A REPORT

2011-02-15T07:41:00.034-06:00

Almost Siberia, Books Find Home in Prison on Central Asian Steppe

This piece is long in coming. Just about a year ago, my good friend Soren Johnson traveled to Kazakhstan on a prison visitation trip with his organization, Prison Fellowship International, where he is Senior Vice President. He travels around the world investigating prison conditions and how prison ministry works (or not) under various systems of penal incarceration. He'd once told me how when entering into a Polish prison a year or so before he traveled to Kazakhstan, he'd found an enormous library, with countless volumes. But each volume had no title or name on its cover or spine; rather each had distinct numbers, like nameless prisoners from the Gulag! It was both stark and surreal. Such activity makes one wonder how closely we often associate books with people, in this case almost like prisoners with numbers!

When Soren told me of his upcoming travels to Kazakhstan, especially to a prison, I seized on the opportunity to see if there were any libraries involved or attached to the institution he was visiting. When he informed me there was, I was excited and told him to take some photos if possible and report back to me what exactly he'd seen. Books in prison have been widely seen as the prisoner's great companions, yet some (perhaps many) prisons in less hospitable climes and cultures are likely to be without such amenities or "luxuries." To have a library in prison is really even more remarkable. In this country, there are programs like the Prison Library Project, which was started in 1973, for example. The history of the actual "prison library" in the U.S. goes back to the early 19th century. In a masterful paper by Rhea Joyce Rubin, titled "U.S. Prison Library Services and Their Theoretical Bases" one can find a rich history of books and libraries in American prisons. As Rubin writes: "In 1790, the Philadelphia Prison Society began furnishing books to the inmates in the Walnut Street Jail and book service to prisoners began," (3). The first prison library, apparently, was constructed about a dozen years later: "1802 marks the first library in a state prison. The Kentucky State Reformatory established a small library, primarily of religious books, which was administered by the chaplain," (3).

Now, because of the punitive nature of many prisons and legal systems around the world, the idea of a library could be considered luxuriant. I'd had different conversations with individuals who'd spent time, for example, in Jamaica. And the reports about the state of prisons in that island nation, especially in the early 1990s, were devastating and atrocious. But in an exchange I had with an official working in prisons in and around Kingston, Jamaica last year, I was pleasantly surprised to hear reports to the very opposite. According to one gentlemen, who'd been into help with prison chaplaincy, some of Jamaica's most high- or maximum security prisons had the best prison libraries and computer centers he'd ever seen! And this may be something to consider when looking here at these photos of the Kazakh prison, in the city of Astana--the second largest city in Kazakhstan, with a population of about 700,000, and located in the northern province of Akmola.

In these photos, you will find a number of resources for the prisoners at the prison, including periodicals, newspapers, and a whole array of reading materials.
Going back to the first photo, you may notice the Cyrillic characters spell out the Kazakh word for "Library," which interestingly reads something like "Kitab'-," clearly from the Arabic root for the word for "book." The fluid and confluent nature of language travel and exchange over geographic locations is quite evident in a word like this. There are other signs in Russian or Kazakh scattered around the library, as you will see below. In the accompanying photo here, you will see informational, catalog, or borrower cards. At this point, I will turn over to some of the reporting that my friend Soren did, and provide some raw data on the institution and the library itself. Here are some notes from Soren:

"Kazakh prisons are numbered. (For further detailed information on this, see the following link: (http://www.kcl.ac.uk/depsta/law/research/icps/worldbrief/wpb_country.php?country=98). This visit was to prison 166/10 in Astana, built in 1971, and which currently holds 764 inmates. I toured this in the course of my work with Prison Fellowship International. It's located in a separate out-building within the general prison "yard"--a multi-acre space which includes gardens, a mosque, a chapel, etc. The sign above the door [see above] says 'library' in Kazakh. When I walked in I found a reading room, with periodicals available. Then you walk through it and enter a second room which is where all the books are located. 8,000 books total. 300 ordered last year. If a prisoner wants a book and the library doesn't have it, the prisoner can arrange to pay for it through his account (if he's saved up money--some 25% of prisoners have the equivalent of FT jobs on the prison grounds, paying about $100 a month).

Inmates are on rotation, basically staffing the library. I took a picture of a box of their library cards--which are pieces of paper just folded in half, with the inmate's name, and what books they've checked out. If you check out a book, you record the info on your card and leave it on the desk and they file it by last name. There's no numbering system on the spines...it's all pretty much alphabetical, by last name of author. I asked if they had Solzhenitsyn's Gulag Archipelago and they said they did, but couldn't locate it (that would have been a great photo!). I asked what was most popular: the inmate/librarian said crime-fiction ("detecktivy"), novels, romance, books on law, English language how-to, collections of correspondences, poetry. They seemed to have a pretty big Russian Literature section. Books were primarily in Russian with some Kazakh as well. As prisoners have free time during the day between and after studies and work, they can and do come to the library. The inmate/librarians said that there are about 150-200 regular users (which is up to about 25% of the inmate population), with 10-20 visitors per day.

Other than the above factoids, I was generally impressed by the order of the library, the librarian's interest, the fresh looking periodicals and newspapers. One prison officer told me that a few years back, all the guards got together and each brought five books that they weren't using at home, and they were able to boost the number of books at the library. Besides the main library there are also 'mini-libraries' around the prison comprised of just one or two shelves. Examples of these could be seen in the Protestant chapel, the Catholic chapel, the Orthodox chapel, and the mosque.

By the way it was 40 BELOW zero Celcius during my visit to the prison! ...[it is fascinating] how prisons are microcosms of society. Each prison I saw had miniature approximations of what we find on the outside. If Dostoevsky or Mandela each basically said that a prison reveals the 'soul' of a country, we could narrow this down in some way and make some educated generalizations about the nation's culture in light of its prison libraries, no?"

I don't think I could have said it better! I really want to thank Soren for his contribution here today. There's a lot that I think we can continue to learn and take away from such little nuggets of information (often hidden information). The other interesting item here is that there is a fairly sizable amount of fluid information here: the idea of what freedom is or may be can be examined by even the freedom of information provided to prisoners. Freedom of space is one thing, while freedom of knowledge and information is another.

Soren had a good trip and was able to connect with an old Kazakh friend of mine, whom I went to college with, and who now lives back in his home country. Now Soren is back home in the U.S., doing the great job he always does. There may be some future collaborations between us, and we're looking forward to exploring the nature and extent of the international prison library phenomenon further. We hope this has been insightful and useful. Please let us know if you have any questions, and we'll try to answer them as we can. For now, back to reading...and back to those companions we call books!

Books at a Garlic Festival

2011-02-13T06:21:00.008-06:00

Even at a Garlic Festival: Books!

I'm not sure how surprised I was when I came across this little treasury of garlic books. Actually, it was a pile of garlic recipe and cook books. But it was a pleasure, nonetheless, to stumble onto a pile of bookish items as these. Last autumn, in the small but every-expanding town of Saugerties, where I have roots that sink into this old Dutch-American earth more than a century and a half, there was the annual Hudson Valley Garlic Festival. I hadn't been in years, and had a hankering for some garlic specialties. The festival has been going on for more than 25 years, and I do remember some of the earliest gatherings, which didn't have the tens-of-thousands of folks it now attracts.

In fact, in the accompanying photo here (right near the books about garlic), you might be able to spy the "Garlic Queen" (Pat Reppert), who has often called (or "styled") herself as the "Goddess of Garlic." That sounds mighty exotic! Anyhow, we chatted briefly, and she's a very lovely woman, who also happens to be the founder of the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival. The first festival was held at her house here in Saugerties in the mid-1980s.

Over the years the festival has grown considerably. I remember one unofficial count being somewhere around 60,000 visitors in one weekend! That means the village of Saugerties swells many, many times its actual size. Lots of traffic.

Perhaps the most curious thing about this festival is how many things are "laced," "concocted," "baked," "cooked" or my favorite--"infused" with garlic. As you can see above: Garlic Chowder.

The general experience at this festival was pleasant, except it was VERY crowded and hard to walk because of this. (There were great blue-grass style bands, puppet-theater, and cooking classes!) The only issue that some might feel offended by was the smell. You see, even as I approached the municipal fields where the festival was held, you could feel the impending garlic cloud floating mouth-high and surrounding you just as you entered. It wouldn't have been so bad if it were the fresh or cooked garlic, but this was the garlic smell of 30,000 people off-gassing their garlic-infused comestibles! Probably the least offensive items were the jellies or honeys (as seen above with many bee friends).

Many vendors drove in to sport their wares and sell garlic-stuff. I had my eyes (and stomach) set on the garlic ice cream. I will admit, I've pined for this delicacy for years, maybe as many as twenty years, since I went to the garlic festival back during my High School days. But let me tell you, this was not something you bring to your grandmother. It was pretty bad. And I like trying all sorts of so-called exotic foods. The problem with this sample, at least, was that the garlic was processed garlic--the kind you get in a big can or bottle that's diced into micro-squares, and then dumped into a vat of vanilla ice-cream.

Folks, I'd say stick to the books. Make your recipes at home. No sense adding to the public garlic cloud, like I did after that ice cream! But if you insist: go to the next garlic festival. It's surely an adventure all its own.

Nixon and Books at the Opera

2011-02-04T20:14:00.018-06:00

An Interesting Twist on History

Over the past month, newspapers, magazines, and radio stations promoting the 1987 opera "Nixon in China" by John Adams have used a handful of curious phrases to describe the piece; usually either "ground breaking" or "path breaking." I'm not sure if either of these terms really work or make sense. I mean, don't get me wrong, this is one of the great operas out there, and it is one of my personal favorites. And I think that Adams is a marvelous composer. But it is in the way that many in the contemporary opera world see this opera that is somewhat puzzling--and thus use these expressions to speak to its seemingly novel employment in the operatic format. Someone this week on one of the NY stations--I think WQXR--addressed this idea of the opera being "ground breaking," in the sense that it ushered in a new host of opera-style pieces, which are being dubbed "docu-operas," or "documentary operas" and even "shock operas." (The commentator didn't seem to think that this term fit or was even necessary, and that "docu-opera" was just a neologism for our times.) Nonetheless, this supposed trend in "docu-operas" is meant to deal with contemporary characters within the framework of the idealized old art form of opera. Some of these new operas can be read about in a recent Financial Times article, and include subjects from Princess Diana and Jerry Springer to Tiger Woods. There's even an opera-style piece based on the transcripts of a testimony by former Attorney General, Alberto Gonzales--called "The Gonzales Cantata!"

So, the idea of the "docu-opera" in many ways seems like a misunderstanding of the historical opera, and specifically, the historical libretto. But it may still be proven accurate after some consideration. The thing that really does make a work like "Nixon in China" unique is that it is an artistic representation (with many liberties!) of an historical event, depicting heads of state and/or leaders of a nation, who were still alive when the opera was written and first performed. (Nixon was still alive when the opera was premiered).

Well, this past week, "Nixon in China" had its Metropolitan Opera premiere on Wednesday night at 8PM. I had the chance to attend, and walked around in the cold and rain before the event. I took photos of Lincoln Center, as well as the bookstore that is part of the Met--though, I did this from the outside to respect the "no photography inside the opera house" request. I wanted to show my kind readers some "bookish opera stuff," so I will offer you this simple photograph above, which is the back side (outside) of the bookshop.

There were some other interesting views to see, which I'm sharing here as well.

Adjacent to the Met was the NYPL for the Performing Arts (Dance, Theater, Music). I took this photo below, which you can see was illuminated in the early evening.

As the hour of the performance drew near, I skipped over puddles of ice water and stumbled up the steps into the opera house. I settled up on the highest rung of the opera ladder: the Family Circle, where the inexpensive ("nose bleed") tickets can be had. I had a fine view, right at the front, and enjoyed the performance with every moment of vocal and artistic and theatrical grandeur displayed: the airplane descending, the pounding minimalist chords, the performance of the magnificent actors, including the reprise of the Nixon role by James Maddalena, who is surely my favorite "Nixonian" in this part. My evening was balanced with a series of interesting events: first, I was hushed by someone behind me for "leaning forward," which I didn't actually do, because there was no room to move forward! But I apologized and the evening went forward. Another interesting event was that the fellow sitting to my left was a blue grass musician who plays in a kids band called the Okee Dokee Brothers. (Check them out, if you get a chance--they've got some really great music!) Joe M. (see the website) and I had some good conversations about "Nixon... ." I later discovered that the house was full of celebs and other such folks. In fact, one of Nixon's own daughters was there, and according to the NY Times review the next day, she was back stage getting her photo taken with her parents' song-bird doppelgangers! The last curiosity of the evening came, as I was leaving, after the opera. I waited for the place to clear out, because I didn't like being stuck in the crowd. So on my way down the stairs, there were just a few people around, and I nearly tripped over NY fashionista Isaac Mizrahi. The thing about New York is that everyone is here/there. So you're likely to run into or trip over, as was my case, pretty much anyone.

Returning to my real theme, "books," I offer you this parting souvenir: a playbill for the opera. It's a book of sorts. A little book. A "booklet." But it certainly conveys a great deal of information. I can't imagine the "booklet" playbill ever becoming digital. That would be just plain weird. I understand that the supertitles are digital, but there's only so much "ground breaking," "path breaking," "trailblazing" that I can take in one evening. So I'd rather give that credit to John Adams. And I'll still hold on to this "bookish" playbill.

B&N Books Branch Closes Near Lincoln Center

2011-02-03T09:57:00.015-06:00

Another Chapter Closes

Just the other evening, I was walking up Broadway near Lincoln Center, and I passed by the recently closed Barnes and Noble (just around 67-69th Streets). I'd been to this same store only a few months back, I think in mid-November, to buy a CD (yes!--I still buy CDs in this iPod Age!!) of Brahms' Requiem. I first went up to one of the top floors to get a light dinner, nothing fancy. And then wandered around the massive book shop. I don't know how many floors there were, but I do remember that I just kept going up and up and up on the escalators! When I got to the music section, and found what I was looking for, I remember going up to a counter, and asked the man if I could check out. He was snippy with me and said, "Can't you read the sign!??" Of course, the sign was poorly placed and very near to the ceiling, far above my head. "Oh, okay, I'm sorry," I said. He gave me a sour look and shook his head. The sign above us read "Information."

It turns out that the store was already on its way out, and the staff must have known that it was closing and that they may have been bracing against lost jobs. Who knows where these folks went, if they were relocated to other branches, or simply let go. Some have suggested that this unfriendly behavior was a direct result of impending job elimination. I'd like to think not, but we have no way of knowing.

The sign above reads, at the beginning, "Yes, it was just a store. But for us, the people who filled this store, it has been our honor and pleasure to serve this community for the past fifteen years." Other signs were put up, which read "No this was not JUST a store." The sentiment throughout the community seems to be somewhat uniform. People don't like losing bookstores, because they create a sort of community within a community, a shared space and place. (Barnes and Noble had to close this location due to much too expensive rent increases). Imagine if everything went digital and there was no more need to meet in shared spaces and have interactive human contact around communal texts? Perhaps we're going in that direction. But for now, let's think about how we can begin anew with creating shared space and developing communities of learning and sharing. And let's hope that "rent" isn't the downfall of books...or community.

A Cookbook Library

2011-02-01T16:36:00.004-06:00

Something in Passing

I couldn't help but take a photo of this quaint little corner "library" that I saw this weekend in a cooking and kitchen shop. I know a lot of people who like cookbooks and collect them, so this would be quite an attraction for those folks. But this was the first time I'd seen an actual labeling of a "cookbook library!" That would usually indicate that these books would be for borrowing/lending, but actually this was a store that "sells" (yes, sells) books. So wouldn't it technically be a "cookbook shop?" Okay, I won't get fussy with technicalities or such issues. What can I say, I have a habit of snapping shots of bookish and library-esque things!

A Midtown Stroll: The NYPL, the Morgan Library, and the Library Hotel

2011-01-30T09:51:00.019-06:00

"So Someone Walks Into a Hotel..."

Okay, so I actually did NOT go into any hotel. But I walked by a hotel recently. It's not quite the joke you imagine. Just over a week ago, I attended a meeting-tour of the New York Theological Libraries Association (NYATLA), which met at the Pierpont Morgan Library in midtown Manhattan. On the way to the meeting, I happened to walk by the locally famous "Library Hotel," which I'll surely have to explore more in depth at another time, because it is clearly an interesting and curious operation, which bases its floors, rooms, and suites on the Dewey Decimal System. Of course, to many in academic libraries, Dewey is an outdated system, often supplanted by LC classification. To Dewey's credit, he did do a stint as University Librarian at Columbia back in the 1880s. So we'll keep him for now! The Library Hotel is located off of Madison Avenue and East 41st Street, not far from either the Pierpont Morgan Library or the New York Public Library.

The Pierpont Morgan Library, where we met and had our tour was a magnificent place, and indeed, a magnificent institution with an abundance of cultural treasures. Located around E. 37th and Madison Avenue, the library has recently been expanded and updated with a marvelous new social gathering space designed by famed architect Renzo Piano. The New York Times had a review of it back in 2006. It is really quite a remarkable space, full of light and glass and modern angles that make you feel like you're in a fantastically naturalistic outdoor cathedral. This space connects various parts of the museum and library, including the gift and book shop, the dining room, the cafe, the galleries (both up- and downstairs), as well as what I'd consider the focal attractions of J.P. Morgan's study and library. In these rooms, Morgan's study specifically, one can cast a glance at where the seat of American financial decision making and power took place more than a century ago--including the massive vault adjacent to Mr. Morgan's study. Oddly, the vault on the day of the visit was open, and visitors could see hundreds of rare books on the interior shelves, while a table stood in the middle of the vault with a charming couplet portraiture of Martin Luther and his wife Katharina Luther (nee von Bora)! I was assured that this was not Morgan's idea! In the private library nearby, separated from the study by a rotunda-style middle-room with pillars, there were displays of manuscripts of the great classic composers, including Mozart's manuscript of his Symphony No. 35, some Schumann chamber works, and a Cantata of Bach! It was astounding to see such handwriting of the greats, and hard to fathom that they'd touched the very pages that lay within inches of my nose, as I focused entranced on each object! They also had proofs of famous books and scribbles from their authors (Lewis Carol, for example), as well as an early Caxton edition of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, dating from the 1400s. They also had a great exhibit on the history of diaries. So if you have time to see it before it ends, I recommend it.

I made my way back afterward, past the New York Public Library and snapped this photo of the famous lions (or at least one of those lions!) Inside, there is a wonderful exhibit of "The Three Faiths," which includes dozens of rare books from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The place was packed with visitors when I went in, so I didn't stay that long. But what I saw was remarkable. I think that another visit and photographic essay should be devoted to this whole library, because it is simply extraordinary. As one of the largest libraries in the world, the NYPL has much to offer. And it's a gorgeous architectural gem, right in the middle of the city. I think if I had more time, I would have stayed longer...and not just because it was warmer inside than the freezing temperatures outside! There is a bigger story to tell here about this library, but we'll wait till it warms up.

The Cathedral, the Peacock, and the Books

2011-01-29T10:50:00.013-06:00

Some Interesting Bookish Things

A walk through the neighborhood of Morningside Heights can yield a number of interesting sights (and sites). Today's offering was a stroll I took well before the snows of December and January fell upon us, making the city of New York slushy, icy, cold, and at times unbearable and wanting for summer to come quickly! As some of you familiar with this blog know, I have a proclivity for searching out book-objects in every possible form out there in our wide world--whether images of books, furniture designed to look like books, or more common, statues holding books carved from stone or cast in some metallic artisanal sculpture. So it is with this last item that I begin today. I hadn't realized how close the magnificent and splendrous St. John the Divine Cathedral was to my office and library at Columbia. One afternoon I took a walk and ambled up the stairs of the massive structure, which is still in the process of being built, nearly 120 years after it began in 1892! Of course, the old medieval churches took just as long and even longer in many cases to build. And for those interested in this old fashioned building (sort of a "slow build" version of the "slow food" movement), take a look at the hand-built castle they've been working on in France for the last few decades, called Chateau de Guedelon. One of the many interesting things about the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is the statuary near the entrance (see above), which depicts a number of saints and other holy figures. My reason for photographing them, besides their sculptured beauty, is that some of them are holding books. Take a look. I did not take photographs inside the Cathedral, as it is dark and I did not want to interrupt those in prayer. But outside there were some other interesting items in the adjacent park.

One of these things was this "random" peacock! At least, I think it was a peacock! It was startling, because it came out of the park and was wandering off of Amsterdam Avenue, seemingly oblivious to the honking cars and taxi cabs. Some folks ushered the bird back into its fenced park area, to shield it from any curbside harm.

It is in this park that one can find some other interesting sites, including the "Peace Fountain."

As the online Atlas Obscura writes: "The Peace Fountain was built in 1985 by Greg Wyatt to depict the struggle of good and evil, shown by the archangel Michael vanquishing Satan."

I did not take a photo of the fountain, but it can be seen on the Atlas Obscura site here.

What I wanted to show was a series of interesting smaller sculptures, which surround the fountain: all of them book sculptures, made out of some sort of metal (bronze?), and which decorate the park. Each book sculpture is different. I've read that there are some sculptures in this park created by children, but I'm not sure if these books were those same sculptures. Nevertheless, if you're ever in the mood to go for a stroll and get a good dose of architectural splendor (or just want to see some bookish sculptures), check out St. John the Divine Cathedral. The peacock will be waiting.

New Columbia University Science Library

2011-01-28T19:36:00.019-06:00

New Science and Engineering Library at Columbia University

The other day, on the way back from a meeting, I decided to visit the new Science and Engineering Library of the Columbia University Library System. The building, which had been under construction for some time, just opened. On the first floor (one floor above the entrance level to the street), is a fine and bustling cafe. It seems to fill a niche in this part of the neighborhood, as it's always packed with "sippers, readers, and studiers." Then again, it is the first week of operation, so it's also in its so-called honeymoon period. Up on the 4th floor, I met one of my librarian colleagues, Amanda, who gave me a brief tour of the newly completed library complex. I say complex, because it serves as more than just a library. The photo above is on an upper level of the library. Surprisingly or not, the Science and Engineering Library has comparatively few books. The sciences have far fewer books and physical journals (most are online or in digital format) than say the Humanities, so this makes sense.

Above we see a view of the Burke Library's Brown Tower (on Broadway, looking north). This was taken from one of the computer/reading room areas on level 4 of the new Science Library.

One more floor up (I think it's called "level 5"), we find a lovely reading and study room. Now, the other evening, we had an event at my library, the Burke, just across the street. And as I was waiting with my colleagues, I noticed that the design of the lights in Burke shared an uncanny resemblance to the ones in the new Science Library. OR, more precisely, those in the Science Library resembled those in Burke. When I mentioned it to my Butler Library colleagues, they said something to the effect of: "shhhhh! the architect would never admit it, but we think you might be right!" The image below is from Columbia University's website, and shows the Burke Library Reading Room--a far older architectural gem.

This sort of design "borrowing" is common. On the campus of the University of Chicago, we find the relatively new Booth Business School's design to be a borrowing and conflation of the masterful architectural designs of the buildings on the three other corners from it, including the magnificent Rockefeller and the Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House.

Back in the Science Library building, we find some lengthy escalators (above), and a top view of the busy cafe (below).

Signs for your direction, against a marbly wall. It's a very interesting architecture inside, while outside, you can see it looks like a 12-storey toaster for baguettes! That's no knock, mind you, since it is an interesting looking building. But I must admit, it seems like only half the floors are accounted for here. So it is anyone's guess what the top 6 floors are for. State secrets, anyone? Whatever your pleasure--science or coffee--stop by and check it out. I think you'll like it.

Housing Works Book Shop (SoHo--NYC)

2011-01-24T06:00:00.009-06:00

A Good Shop for A Good Cause

In the cold of December, one of my colleagues suggested that we take a field trip to a special book shop in the city. Housing Works Bookstore, located at 126 Crosby Street in the northern reaches of SoHo, is surely a unique place. My colleague Zack Lane had many great things to say about this place, and he was absolutely on track. Here is a link to the book shop:

(http://www.shophousingworks.com/booklisting.cfm).

But it is more than just a book shop, it is a book shop on steroids-- providing a healthy and robust program of social activism and assistance to people in need. To quote the website, one of Housing Works' many causes may be summed up in the following statement:

"The largest AIDS activist group in the U.S., Housing Works empowers clients, staff, volunteers and supporters to take action—from phone zaps to Congressional visits to street-side civil disobedience—on local, state, national and international AIDS issues. Read our Housing Works AIDS Issues Update blog, and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed and learn what you can do to help end AIDS."

As for the bookstore itself, it was quite a find in NY city, considering the number of bookshops which charge so much for used volumes--often far more than the books are actually worth.

There were various sections in the shop. One of the interesting things is that the classification is not that rigid, which some might say adds a certain sloppiness to the place. But on the flip side, it provides ample opportunity for biblio-searchers like myself to find some rare or simply magnificent finds. Now, even though I did not find anything on this trip--or rather, I did not "buy" anything on this trip--there were plenty of great books here.

In the front of the store there was a display case of rare and signed books. Above is a volume of "Every Man a King" (1933) by assassinated Louisiana Governor, Huey Long. It's on sale (and I believe up for auction) for ~$8,500.00, because Long signed it! In the back of the book shop there is a little cafe where readers and browsers can get a snack and some warm drinks on a cold winter evening, while reading their books. You can see most of the shop from the second tier balcony (see below), where I took this photo. It was a lovely experience, and if you're in the area, you should check it out. I did see on the bargain rack the complete writings of Aristotle for only $1! I didn't buy it, though. Many people think that other book stores in the city (including in Brooklyn) come to Housing Works and buy cheap books, then resell them elsewhere for greatly exaggerated prices! Either way, whatever it is you do, come on in and check the place out. It's definitely a must-visit.

Shakespeare on a Manhattan Street

2011-01-23T07:20:00.004-06:00

What You Stumble Across

I'm not sure if it's just my lot in life, but for whatever reason, I very often find myself tripping over books. Literally. A couple years ago, when I was in Chicago, I was walking down the street and found a box full of Beowulf tomes--translations, commentaries, critical editions, and tour books to Denmark that high-lighted the historical relation to the old epic. I thought this was unique (or at least somewhat particular) to my neighborhood of Hyde Park, near the University of Chicago. Of course, this was my own obvious naivete. This past November, I'd been strolling around Morningside Heights, the community around Columbia University, one evening, when I happened upon a pile of books on the curbside. Okay, I didn't "trip" over them. But I was pretty close! The trove of books was mostly Shakespearean classics in one-play editions. As you can see from the photo here, I selected "The Two Noble Kinsmen" and "Much Ado About Nothing." There were others, but I took these. And they were in pristine condition. As if they'd never been used or read! (Yes, people DO still read Shakespeare! Of course, seeing and hearing it is usually much more engaging). Well, I was glad to find that I'd landed in yet another place where books could be found (or had) in such abundance. When I get around to it, I'll share some images of the innumerable and ever-present book sellers on the streets of New York. To my surprise, they

actually sell books in the winter too. Like the week before Christmas, when I went to Zabars to fetch some goodies, a whole row of bundled up book sellers looking like winter-clad Moscovites, were plying their trade. It was a sight then to see that they'd taken equal care of their books: they too were "dressed" for winter--each bound in a protective winter-coating of durable, snow-proof plastic!

Keep on reading!

Scanning Biblical Manuscripts

2011-01-22T08:40:00.023-06:00

An Extraordinary Mission

The Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts (http://www.csntm.org/) founded in 2002 by Dr. Dan Wallace, and presently headed by him as Executive Director, is a fascinating and remarkable organization. In the Spring of 2010, a group of researcher scholars, interns, and professionals from the CSNTM visited the JKM Library and the Gruber Collection, to produce digital images of a large number of the New Testament manuscripts in the collection.

The Gruber Rare Books Collections (aka "The Gruber Room") of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC), where I was formerly employed as a librarian, has a remarkable selection of items--from New Testament manuscripts and incunabula to Reformation era pamphlets and 1st editions. The following link will connect you to a site developed and maintained by Prof. Emeritus Ralph Klein: (http://collections.lstc.edu/gruber/about.php) --scans of some of the documents in this collection are included.

One of the most interesting objects in the collection was a complete New Testament minuscule manuscript from (if I recall correctly) around the 9th-10th century. Its order is not what is often today considered canonical, but has the Pauline texts in a variant sequencing. This text is one of, if not the oldest complete Greek minuscule New Testament in the world.

Most of the field operations have been conducted by Dr. Jeff Hargis, the Field Director, and his team, which on this site visit included the talents of Garrett Mathis, J.D. Lemming, and Seth Stevens; many of those who worked on the project were students at Dallas Theological Seminary. The team was delightful to work with, and a pleasure to have around in our library. They worked assiduously through the days and week(s), when they were on campus, often leaving in the evening greatly tired. But their labors are a most extraordinary devotion and mission, for which the scholarly, liturgical, and theological world should be thankful.

In these photos (above and below), you will see one of the different modes of scanning and imaging. This was the UV imaging--i.e. it was done effectively in the dark, with indirect blue lighting, and prolonged shutter exposure. In these instances, this type of imaging can help illuminate or uncover text, which may have been bleached out, deleted, or simply erased on the palimpsest. In some cases, we were able to see writing that had been erased--either simply taken out and left blank, or written over with other text. The guys had been working on a number of manuscripts using this technique, which required a steadied patience and a strong arm, because the hand-held blue lights had to be passed slowly over the manuscripts in complete darkness, while the camera's shutter held exposures of between 15 to 30 seconds. I helped hold and wave the blue-lights a number of times, and must admit it was rather tiring! The UV shots were set up by the computer, after first being primed with what's called a "white balance," to orient the specific colors of the documents, before the shot.

Toward the end of the lengthy process, I sat down with Jeff and Garrett to get some of the details of this remarkable operation. As mentioned above, Dr. Dan Wallace founded the organization in 2002. It was a one man operation until 2008. Before Jeff and Garrett came on board, Jeff led Bible tours in Greece, which is where he met Garrett. Garrett has traveled quite a bit (and to some extent with this job), and had been in Albania back in June-July of 2007.

Much of their present work centers around material found on the so-called "K-liste," a full Greek manuscript New Testament Catalog, which Dr. Hargis has written a magnificent account of and can be seen on the website (see link below):

(http://www.csntm.org/Blog/Archive/2009/3/31/WhatDoesItMeanToDiscoverAManuscript)

Much of the regular scanning (i.e. that which was done under normal light) was done in the Gruber Room itself. The cameras and equipment stands, which help support the manuscripts, were Canon IDS Mark III (2 set up) cameras and the Graz Traveler's Companion Copy Stand.

Many, if not all of the manuscripts in this collection come from what is called the 1424 Family of New Testament manuscripts--a designation which the members of the CSNTM are fully qualified and willing to speak about. Admittedly, this was one of the most exciting biblio-related events I've participated in. It was fun to watch previously unstudied manuscripts. Perhaps the most dazzling material was the commentary (in marginalia) found in the 1000+ year-old New Testament Greek minuscule, which has never been read or translated! Who knows what may be found there. Who knows what theological mind-bending might be yielded for us to consider and ponder! For those interested, you can now go to this remarkable site, and see what great work they've accomplished. And for those who may be interested in this organization, and have a few shekels to spare, think about some way to support their efforts. They surely have a lot to offer, and will continue to afford access to these immeasurable treasures that have been hidden from our world for so long.

Books and Christmas at an Old Hudson Estate

2010-12-25T08:33:00.011-06:00

Enjoying some Cider, Books, and an Old House on the Hudson

In the week before Christmas this past year, many businesses, organizations, and museums have celebrated the holiday season with open houses, complete with decorations of pine boughs, bright lights, and sugar cookies with warm mulled cider. And it was at one such event that I found some old books to share with my readers. And a little bit of history. In the cold of this December, the Clermont Estate, once owned by the illustrious Livingston family, was open to the public. Driving along the old paved roads leading up to homestead, one could see the cold woods, with traces of left-over snow and the community of grey trees holding themselves tight against the cold of winter.

Inside the visitors center, there were several exhibits relating not just to the Livingston family, who owned and lived on the property for generations, but also some luminaries of American history, including steam boat pioneer Robert Fulton.

Outside the shop and down the hill, visitors would soon see this lovely view of the manor house, which stood stately and proud in its age on this cold winter day.

Inside, the halls and rooms were decked in the most splendid holiday charm. Above, the Christmas tree; below, one of the library-study rooms.

The delightful tour of the home was capped by a visit to the kitchen. And look!--even there we found books! Books, books, everywhere! So, if you're ever in the area north of Poughkeepsie, NY, near the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, or Bard College, stop by the old estate and pay them a visit. It's a worthy cause to help support such vital historical institutions of our regional and national heritage. And you might spy some interesting books in the mean time.

Books, Bakeries, and the Tea Party

2010-12-19T06:48:00.006-06:00

The Constitution as Book

Not so long ago, I'd gone up to the foothills of the Catskills on a trek to find one of my all-time favorite bakeries, Hartmann's Kaffee Haus--and old-style German bakery and eatery, tucked away in the dark woods of Round Top, not far from Catskill, NY. One feels almost as if they're about to trip over Hansel and Gretal when they find this place in the woods! Usually, when I've gone to eat there, there are many old retirees, sitting quietly or murmuring to one another about local politics or who they'd seen at the recent penny social down at the Methodist church. They'll be nibbling on rye toast slathered in heavy dollops of unsalted butter, and sipping old-style water'd church coffee and smiling to their table mates.

I've found the food to be a good dose of old world flavor and old hill country charm. My favorite being the hefty bratwursts with sauerkraut. It will be an adequate meal for anyone who visits. Of course, I must add a little dessert to it, because the bakery is the main attraction, and its Linzer and Alexander tortes are simply to die for. Their Schwarzwald kuchen too, is a definite must for those who enjoy the cake-ish side of things. Now many of you might be asking: "what does cake and a bakery have to do with anything, least of all...books?" Well, let me tell you, good folks! This last time I visited, I remember pulling into the parking lot of Hartmann's and being greeted with not just the usual American and German flags--after all, Hartmann's is a "traditional" style German bakery. But also the "Don't Tread on Me" Flag, which has become a trademark banner of the new Tea Party. Usually, businesses don't wear their politics on their sleeves, but the mark of Tea Partying participants has been to demonstrate their beliefs of libertarian self-reliance and autonomous anti-big government through outward signs of vexillological grandeur ("flag showing"). The Gadsden "Don't Tread on Me" flag is perhaps now the most famous symbol of this movement. But another symbol is the U.S. Constitution.

As you can see above in the first photo, the bakery was not only selling pastries, tortes, and cakes, but also pocket size booklets of the U.S. Constitution! They sold for around $2. I must admit: I already own one of these, because during the last election, I was at a train stop in Westchester, when a Tea Party candidate was handing out U.S. Constitutions for free! Anyhow, it was interesting to see this. And interesting to see that they had taped a copy of the U.S. Constitution to their cash register. Now more than a month later, I thought about the old bakery once again, as I walked into a pizza place just yesterday. Below the counter there wasn't a U.S. Constitution, but a floor mat nailed upright, which read "No Spin Zone,"--the trademark of the famed Bill O'Reilly show. But what was more entertaining was the utilization of books, YES!--books! to promote a very similar message. Right there on the tables of the pizza shop, not far from (and surely catering to) one of America's great liberal arts colleges, the owners were clearly targeting their clientele with both good pizza...and tables piled high with books by Glenn Beck and the new rebuttal to Howard Zinn's influential opus (A People's History of the United States) entitled "A Patriot's History of the United States." And people say books are dead?!

At least we continue to be entertained.

A Book Bench in an Antique Shop

2010-12-19T06:38:00.005-06:00

The Quirky, The Weird, and The Bench?

Every so often, I admit it: I am drawn to share with you some of the lighter aspects of bookishness. I could not help pass this opportunity by, then, when I was in an antique shop last month, and I saw an old coffee table/ottoman, which was designed to look like three books piled on one another. It opens (as you can see) to reveal a secret hiding place for...well, books (of course!) and other items. Now, some of you might think that you'd like this in your home, but this is the sort of furniture that I'd call a "one spouse preference" item. You know, those things that only one in a household likes, while the other things just simply tasteless, hideous, disgraceful. No? I did not buy this one in the end. Not for that reason, but because I actually don't have anywhere to put it. But more practically, it's because the darn thing was missing one of its legs, and leaned like a wounded runner after a long race. Poor little bench.

Hudson Valley Special Libraries Association

2010-12-19T06:00:00.006-06:00

When Librarians Have Fun

Being relatively new to the area of New York city and Westchester County, I figured that it would be a good idea to start to meet some more people in the library world, to extend that network of colleagues in information science. So when I received an email from a colleague about an upcoming meeting and dinner of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Special Libraries Association (SLA), I jumped on the opportunity and signed up. The event was held at the Casaletto Ristorante in Elmsford, NY, not far from Tarrytown, on November 29th. It was a cold evening and I drove down from the north into the seemingly crowded township, replete with strip malls and multiple classy-named diners. I was somewhat early, so there weren't too many attendees there yet. But it was a good opportunity to begin to meet some of the folks already there.

The theme of the event was that well-weathered and oft surprisingly consistent theme: "the future of the library." Of course, it is necessary for our or any other profession to embrace these dynamic questions, because otherwise we might be out of business--or without jobs! But a delightful, anecdotal, episodic speech was given after the sumptuous meal by Dr. Norman Jacknis (here at left), who spoke of the tasks at hand for both him and those sitting around the table. It was pleasant to get fresh insight from non-theological librarians, as well as those who are in the corporate sector, rather than strict academicians.

The evening was punctuated by various productive and entertaining interactions with other librarians. Since the SLA had an entire room of the restaurant to itself, everyone mingled and talked with one another from the organization...as we entered, as we were waiting for dinner, as we had dinner, and after the speech, during dessert. I made a lot of new acquaintances and partners in the info biz that evening. And just as I was heading out the door, thinking it was all over, they had a raffle, where my name was called out: I'd won a bottle of champaign! Now this is what librarianship is really about! As I'd offered in my introduction to the others as we went around the table: "I came tonight, because I wanted to be with other 'special people.'" Indeed, I think I'd found something I liked.

Books and Gargoyles!

2010-11-30T10:01:00.004-06:00

Who Knew They Could Read!?

Not too long ago, I was walking down 110th Street here in Manhattan, just east of Broadway, and I looked up to discover that there was a sequence of gargoyles carved into the stone edifice of an apartment building. Of course, what really caught my attention was that one of them was reading. Or more accurately, one of them was holding a book and contemplating over its contents. According to one website, these sculptures are "the hungry gargoyles of 110th Street." More photographs can be found on the site: http://www.buildingmagazine.net/2009/09/the-hungry-gargoyles-of-110th-street/ The building was completed in 1909, and has a number of these grotesque characters, including the one above, which is actually a man pondering his ledger book! I wonder what stone carvers will be doing in the future...a ponderous and creepy old man with his Kindle? Hmmmmmm, now that would be something.

Welcome to the Burke Library!

2010-11-27T04:40:00.009-06:00

A Pretty Big Theological Library

So if there is anyone wondering why I've been such a slacker with this blog, I'll give you one word: Burke. This September I began a new job at a library in New York City: Public Services Librarian at the Burke Theological Library of Union Theological Seminary and Columbia University. A wonderful job at a wonderful library. So you ask then, "why blame the Burke!?" Ah, I'm not blaming! It all comes to the daily economy of time. In my last job in Chicago, I lived only a few blocks from work. I could get up early or not and work on the blog before work, which was my custom, but now, I live more than 30 miles away from work and commute more than 65 miles round trip each day. So I end up spending a good portion of my prior blogging time on a train! Plus, I have to get up much earlier than before, not by choice, but necessity--so I'm not late for work! So the decreased frequency is the result. I apologize. I need to get the show back on the road! Nonetheless, it has been an interesting transition. Some might say "trial by fire," though I must admit that that is a rather silly expression, even if apropos. Getting acquainted with the entire Columbia University Library system of 20+ institutional libraries, and its more than 100 librarians, support staff, and library student workers was overwhelming at first, but now has become a pleasant part of the job. Columbia University is the 5th largest academic library in North America, according to ARL statistics for 2007-2008, with combined volumes counting 10,296,816 (10.2 million). The Burke Library, one of the ~23 libraries in the Columbia system, has more than 700,000 volumes, including circulating books, rare books (~150,000-200,000), magazines and journals, and more. It also has a magnificent archival collection (or more specifically, collections--plural). Interestingly, if one does an online search for "largest theological libraries," there seems to be some rivalry'd statement about schools like Princeton Theological Seminary (PTS), for example, who claim the title of "largest." But statistically, this is not accurate. But if we want to be diplomatic, PTS can have the largest theological library "in the US," just as long as we still hold the title of largest theological library "in the western hemisphere." It's only fair.

Of course, there's so much more to tell: about our wonderful staff, our magnificent Friends of the Library group, our lectures, a more. So come on by, if you're in the neighborhood, and we'll give you a tour!

Free Books Sign in NYC

2010-10-24T20:28:00.006-05:00

In Case You Were Wondering...

When I first moved to NYC, I discovered this lovely sign across the street from my library at Columbia University. Who couldn't resist this!? Well, unfortunately, I had arrived too late to get a piece of the action. But it was at least good to know that such things were available in the city. Just this past week--October 22 or so--I took my first trip to the famous "Strand" bookshop in the city, down by Union Square. Supposedly 18 miles of books! What a shop! At some point soon, I'll have to do a bibliotour down there for you and show you what they've got! For now, enjoy this little remnant of NYC history. The sign is now tattered, faded, and pretty much gone to the wind. Onward history!

Bibliobargains, Biblio-Outhouse!

2010-10-24T20:26:00.004-05:00

Books in Outhouses?

This, I must admit, is a long-lost photo of me at the Bibliobarn out in the Hobart-Kortright cosmos of rural upstate/mid-state New York. I'd visited back in the spring briefly, and wrote about the adventure in a blog posting here on Books and Biblios. I thought I'd add it, because I found it so out-of-the-ordinary. In this photo you can see the old outhouse was converted into a sales book locale, which the proprietors called "Bibliobargains." At this precise moment, I was enthralled with a violin score by a now forgotten (by me!) obscure 19th century Bohemian composer. It was something rather remarkable. Of course, my faulty memory now doesn't remember much else! But I do think that the Bibliobarn and its contents are still for sale; somewhere under $475,000 for the whole thing. Any takers?

Books, Shops, and Libraries of Milwaukee

2010-08-28T08:38:00.014-05:00

Milwaukee's Got Books Too!!

Sometimes I am amazed when people say that they prefer the "big cities" like New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, because they have better access to "books and culture." Okay, this is a complicated statement, because "culture" (whatever that is or we make it out to be) is a hard word to define. Sure, in New York City for example, one could see maybe 4 times as many operas and probably 30 times as many classical concerts as in Chicago, and probably ten or a hundred fold that in much smaller American cities. But books? Aren't books pretty much everywhere? I have really heard people make such comments. So when it comes to books, I'm slightly puzzled, because many of America's smaller cities don't simply have "lots of books," but many of the best book stores--most of them used book shops, which believe it or not, I prefer to the larger monstrosities of the famed American metropolis--we won't mention names here!

The beauty of small (or smaller) American cities, especially those which have colleges or universities, is that they most often have great used book shops. And plenty of them for you to browse and buy or simply sit back in and enjoy a cup of tea, while you read. I remember fondly the bookshops in Champaign-Urbana, when I was in library school. Just delightful places, and all out in the rural flatness of middle Illinois.

So when I went to Milwaukee last spring for our semi-annual Chicago Area Theological Library Association (CATLA) meeting, I was more than pleased with the various and bountiful resources available to see...and surely more important: available to Milwaukeeans (or is it Milwauker?)

I drove up from Chicago with the director of the CTU library, Melody McMahon, and we all gathered at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee campus at around 9AM. The library above is the Golda Meir Library, named after its perhaps most famous resident, who lived here nearly a century ago, before heading off to the middle east and becoming the first woman head of the state of Israel. In the lobby of this library were many items, including art made out of old books: these were made into an alligator and a machine gun!

We held our sessions next to the Special Collections of the library. Below, in the hallway leading up to the Special Collections was a display of historical comics on display. This library apparently has a magnificent collection of comics.

We took a tour of the library facilities, and many of us who came from smaller libraries (or at least economically challenged ones!) were marveling at the technologies of the university campus: below is a digital sign, which displayed how many computer stations were being used, where, and how long! So if you needed a computer, you could look at this screen and find where there was an available seat in the library!

Golda, above. Below: Deirdre A. Dempsey, Ph.D. gave an outstanding performace at her lecture on the history and background of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Professor Dempsey is Associate Professor in the Theology Department at Marquette University, and her webpage can be seen here: http://www.marquette.edu/theology/dempsey.shtml

She gave a marvelous presentation as a preface to the tour we would be taking later this afternoon at the Milwaukee Public Museum, downtown.

At the museum above and below. An interesting place, which I didn't have enough time to visit all of. But it was interesting, nonetheless. You'll see that we weren't allowed--of course--to photograph the original scrolls, so I took pictures of the signs and books about them!

It was a funny and odd experience. Above is just at the top of the escalator, near the entrance of the exhibit. Once you entered the area where the scroll fragments were on exhibit, it got dark, with blue lights...and the hallways were decorated with middle eastern motifs and palm trees! There was a soundtrack of eerie middle eastern music playing, some sort of Bedouin instrument, a horn, calling into the night. Then sounds of wind and the dessert. There were maps of the ancient world and light-generated images being projected here and there. The rooms where the scrolls were held were quite cool. It was though, I must admit, a rather surreal experience. Like they were forcing you to have a particular--almost religious or spiritual--experience.

Emerging in the later afternoon, we came into the light and into the book store. You could buy books about the scrolls, if you so desired.

On the way home, I took a few snapshots of old book shops and other curiosities in Milwaukee.
They do have books, you know!

With an astounding array of culture--from local used book shops, a university library system at UW-Milwaukee boasting more than 3.2 million volumes, public libraries, a museum showing an exhibit on the Dead Sea Scrolls, and more--I think that many people could say that Milwaukee might be able to hold its own culturally. And you know, I didn't even mention the great restaurants downtown, the Calatrava-designed Milwaukee Art Museum (one of my favorite all time buildings in the world!!), the gorgeous lake-front, or even...how could we forget: the Burning Snow Center (below) for the Experimental Arts. Hey!--I think everyone needs a little bit of Burning Snow now and then. Our whole enterprise in life and books is experimental arts. So keep on reading; and keep on experimenting!

OP-SHOP II (Hyde Park)

2010-08-28T08:34:00.018-05:00

The (OP)portunity Shop: The Coolest Place in Town

There is no getting around it: the Opportunity (or "OP") Shop in Hyde Park is clearly the coolest place in town. I say this really without reservation, because it has become one of the true gathering places for the Hyde Park (Chicago) community, which fosters partnerships, discussions, and general community-building through a variety of artistic, musical, and health related expressions (e.g. art shows, concerts, workshops on yoga and the art of motion). The op shop has an interesting history and other information can be found online at its website (http://www.theopshop.org/) and (http://www.theopshop.org/about.html). According to the site, its founder--a neighbor of mine about a block away--is Laura Schaeffer, who is a local curator and artist. For some time she has hosted art openings and events in her own home, which have been highly successful.

Schaeffer has done tremendous work in this neighborhood to build community arts projects, especially through this new venue. The first OP shop opened last year, I believe in December of 2009 and ran for about a month in an empty space on 55th Street, just west of Cornell, on the south side of the street between an eyeglass shop and some restaurants. It was a magnificent space, which she transformed beautifully. This was "OP shop 1." The second iteration, "OP shop 2" was opened in the old Hollywood Video store, located on the corner of 53rd Street and just 100 feet west of Lake Park, next to a parking lot. This was a magnificent incarnation of the space and the OP shop venue, and this is what I am displaying for you all today. These photos were taken during its also short OP shop life--I believe OP shop 2 ran for about two months from March or April to May 2010. It included booths for antiques, a herbarium/plant shop, a number of artist spaces, community dinner space, art project work spaces, a pile of compost which was sold by the bag, and of course many books! But there was much more...including a children's fort made out of cardboard boxes!

As you can see from some of these photos, there are books and so many other things of note, including an old leather harness for a horse! The OP shop runs primarily on donations and the largesse of the greater community, so it is important that those who appreciate such endeavors promote it and support it. We found the OP shop space simply wonderful, and often a good alternative space for enjoying a quiet Sunday afternoon where we could bring the kids and have them play, be entertained, and just do something different. Especially when it was cold!

Above, the famous (or infamous?) compost heap. See the shovel at left! And below, one of the exhibits of artists at the OP shop.

Cute kid enjoying art above. And old VHS boxes below, containing not VHS tapes, but books! I thought this a novel approach to displaying books.

Above, some more artists painting. Adjacent to this, there was an "Oral History" desk, which was attempting to document the history of this building, before it would ultimately be torn down.
Below, the fort in the background, as well as the work tables, and some books on a table up front.

Fort. Great Fort! Below, an old newspaper, Harpers Weekly, from 1859.

Signs above, made of cardboard. And below, a decorative entrance made of magnetic tape!

The "OP entrance" above, inside. And some more books...

I must say that places like the OP shop are great additions to communities around the country. Open indoor spaces, which afford community building are increasingly rare, especially when you have budget cuts or it costs too much to rent spaces for the general populace. On the other hand, there must be some interest generated in the community for such places to work. I do hope that the OP shop venues continue...not just to exist, but to flourish. And if there are books there, that will be fine too.

[Roll 1294]

Devon Street Bookshops, Chicago--New and Old

2010-08-28T08:32:00.011-05:00

A Lesser Known Book District

Most people know of Printers Row in Chicago, which does not exactly have a hundred famous bookstores on it, but does have an annual book fair that is quite remarkable. Chicago does have a variety of book stores, many of them used, but also para-bookstores--by which I mean vast collections of second-hand books being sold in thrift stores. And this is the real treat and treasure for those book hunters in the Chicagoland area. Hyde Park, for example, may have the best collection of book shops in one area (include O'Gara, Powell's, and 57th Street Books, among others). It used to have Ex Libris, the theological book store, which is now closed. And other book shops are more disparately placed throughout the city. But it came to my attention one day, while I was driving down Devon Street on the northern part of the city, that there were quite a number of book shops on that street, and many of them quite interesting and diverse, specifically foreign language book shops, Islamic book shops, and Jewish book shops, among others. So I decided to take some photos and share them with you today. Some of these, you will see, no longer exists--merely their signs. But most are still there and available to see and shop in. So for those of you interested in something a little different on your next trip to Chicago, especially something bookish, make a pilgrimage to Devon Street. You'll enjoy a diverse palette of book shops, before you go off and indulge in a hefty curry tofu.

Books on Farms

2010-08-28T08:31:00.006-05:00

"This Little Pig Went to..."

Actually, this ain't no little pig! We did feed her every morning some fine corn meal and oats. So you might be wondering why start off a post with an image of a pig? Well, today's installment is actually about books on farms. Admittedly, I cannot address anything to do with farmer literacy, for example, even though I'm fairly sure that many and most farmers are capable of reading just fine, even though in the Sicilian old country where some of my family comes from, my own great-grandfather couldn't read or write (he had to sign his name with an "X" because of this!). Nonetheless, it just happens that my family and I had been out at a farm this past spring, and of course, books, books, and more books could be found! (I mean, where "aren't" books!? Though, I bet some of you might be saying "modern libraries!" But let's be kind.)

Now this was an old farmsteady kind of place. And it doubled as a B&B, which we all stayed at and enjoyed. Part of the fun and enjoyment for the suburban "city slickers" who frequented this establishment (which may now include me!) was the ability to let the kids go out and water and feed the hens, the cows, the goats, and "all them other beasts" in the early morning.

There was even a llama, with whom I had a good conversation or two with. But inside, after collecting some eggs, which were then fried up for a fine country breakfast, one could sit and enjoy a whole number of freely accessible books...on shelves around the house. But also on tables, chairs, and other nooks and crannies. There was plenty of reading on the history of the Amish, as we were in fact in Amish country. And so, that was a pleasant addition and learning experience.

Of course, the amenities of old times were preserved in some fashion here, with not just the stove and an antique radio (which worked!), but also a rather rustic bathroom. This old advertisement was hung in the very snug bathroom--The Robinson Improved Folding Bath Cabinet. That's how I felt, actually--the bathroom was that small. It does prompt a question quite relevant to bookishness and reading: when did bathroom reading begin? It is hard to say whether the Romans enjoyed the comforts of tablets and scrolls while discharging their daily duties. But my guess is that it must have occurred when bathrooms came indoors and comfortability became and issue. Cold outhouses, you'd want to run out and run back in the cozy house. Toasty, heated bathrooms, lend comfort to solitary reflection. Warm bathroom, won't travel. Will read.

[1286]

Stone Books and Mennonite Cemeteries

2010-08-28T08:30:00.010-05:00

Stone Books?

I must admit, I can't say that I'm a "keen observer" of all things cemetery, but perhaps I do take a special interest in gravestones and their most curious design. Something that caught my attention last year in some of the cemeteries of Chicago was the designs of books that were often engraved on old tombstones. Last summer I visited over half a dozen different cemeteries in the Chicago area, documenting various styles of tombs etched or designed with book-images. I photographed well over 100 stones. But there were so many that I hadn't had the time to organize and write about them, which I eventually hope to accomplish. But this past spring, I happened to be visiting a Mennonite cemetery in the Lancaster, PA region, and thought I'd snap a few photos, including these early stones above, which showed off some handcraft of stone carving.

The important and apropos aspects of this cemetery, though, are the tombs specifically engraved with images of books. These are not the most fancy book carving I've found since I started examining this motif, but it is interesting to see in contrast with other styles in this old Mennonite cemetery. Below, you can see the image of a farm on the stone.

More stones above with images of books carved into them. Below, some older stones and the Kraybill meeting house. This isn't that far from the Susquehanna river region.

Above and below we find two examples of book engravings. The one below is of an older couple, in their 80s when they died. Above, a sad reminder of the death of a child. In fact, it appears that this child died in birth...young Scott Bradley. "The Book of Life" as many of these books inscriptions are meant to symbolize. Requiescet in pace.

Printing and History of York

2010-08-28T08:24:00.007-05:00

The History of American Printing

Some of my travels this year brought me to York, PA. I took a fine stroll down its lovely sidewalks, where I discovered various historical elements, including some vintage buildings and a police heritage museum. Unfortunately, most of these places were closed!

But the main point of interest in York is (or accurately, "was") its printing history. I must apologize to my readers that I did have some photos of the historical signs describing this printing history...but alas, they were lost on my computer. So I no longer have them to show!
BUT...this image below shows these wee cute kids running down the street in front of where York's first printing shop was located, some two centuries ago. There isn't much left of the antique printing trade...but the streets are still lovely! Even if we didn't get to see any books, per se, on this trip, maybe some of you will have better luck if you visit! Now...off to more book finding!

Bible Outlet In Lancaster, PA

2010-08-28T08:21:00.005-05:00

A Bible Outlet?

Indeed! This was the view I got from my car window, as I was driving by a strip mall in Lancaster County, PA. Perhaps not necessarily there to stock the Amish or Mennonites who live in the area, it was there nonetheless. Yes, a Bible Outlet. Not much more to be said. I'm sorry to say that I wasn't able to actually go into one of these places, as I was in traffic. Yes--with horses and buggies whizzing by me! One day, I promise, one day...I'll find my way into a Bible Outlet.

Book Art at the Regenstein Library

2010-08-26T07:24:00.008-05:00

Some book art...

Back in the Spring on the campus of the University of Chicago, I spied this little pile of book art and decided to take some photos. I'm always curious about such displays of books in artistic rendering, and this did not disappoint! There was a large cardboard sign that explained the purpose of the art. The rest is for your eyes to discern, admire, and enjoy!

Books at the Tango Cafe

2010-08-26T07:21:00.004-05:00

Books Made into Art...

This is but a mere observation, but at the Tango Cafe in Chicago, which I visited this spring, and where they have free Tango lessons at 3PM every afternoon on weekends, I discovered something interesting: books made into art. Specifically "door art." As you can see from these two images, the owners made the door look like a bookshelf! In fact, it was rather cleverly done. Some people turn books into doorstops, others...well, into "books." Though, in this case, their symbolic beauty was what was important! So go check it out. But more importantly, the Tango cafe offers free tango and some decent coffees and desserts. You'll have to pay for those. But it's worth it.

Books on Mars?

2010-08-26T07:12:00.006-05:00

The Real Cheese

If you've ever driven north from Chicago to Milwaukee on Route 94, you've surely noticed the venerable Mars' Cheese Castle just off the Kenosha exit onto Route 142. If you HAVE missed it, look again! This has been a mainstay for decades now, and serves up one of, if not THE pride of Wisconsin: cheese! It's a store with many faces. You can get varieties of cheeses, cheese curds, and cheese heads (Wisconsinites know what I'm talking about). But you can get snacks of all types: sweet sugary candies, maple syrupy delights, chips, salsa, sausage snacks, and more. You can also get lunch or buy some souvenir.

Now the "books on Mars" part of our piece today refers to a stand of popular history books, which can be found in many Americana kitsch displays. See above, in front of the milk cow! Below, cheese heads and other "knick knacks."

My biblio-travels were paused momentarily to take in the local comestibles: liverwurst sandwich and yellow potato salad washed down with truckers' coffee--mmmmmmm! an American classic!

What else could one ask for!? So maybe the "bookishness" wasn't so grand here, but there was a slight hint of it for the kitsch-meister in me. But the rest of this store is a grand ol' place. And from what I hear, they're in the process of expanding into a far greater space, right behind the present location. So maybe some more books...? And certainly more cheese.

Books at a Polish Restaurant!

2010-08-26T07:01:00.009-05:00

Szatas Restaurant in Chicago

I've been bringing my camera just about everywhere. And good thing, because I've been able to snap a few good photos here and there of not just interesting places, but books in interesting places! And this includes restaurants. I'd thought of doing a series on the blog about menus as a form of "book" or reading gadget, but never got around to it. But a few months back I came across a little nook of specialty items at this Polish Restaurant in Chicago, out near Midway Airport. Not only was the "nook" curiously interesting, but the whole restaurant itself was. In fact, I was drawn to the whole interesting design of the place from its external appearance of an Alpine lodge! There are a handful (or maybe more!) Polish restaurants out on Cermack and Cicero and Pulaski Avenues. This one seemed the most colorful, so I thought I'd try it out one evening for dinner.

Inside had decorations from stuffed heads of wild deer to oversized beer and spirits keg-fronts decorated with national dress. They even had a mid-19th century wagon suspended from the ceiling!

Of course my curiosity came with the little handcrafts and the coterie of Polish books stuffed into the corner! How could I let this opportunity pass?

Hand-written signs in Polish, as well as (my blurry photo of...) images of Pope John Paul II, the modern Polish Pope, who is being pushed into that crowded room of sainthood, adorning the walls of the restaurant!

Of course, I've managed to do this in reverse, but that makes it more interesting. When one enters the restaurant, you are met by a medieval door and a sign that reads "Please Pull the Rope." The rope is attached to another rope and that is attached to a length of tin-bells that sound like cows coming up the hill when rung! After a few moments, a man dressed like a 14th century peasant opens and lets you in! They've always said Chicago was a political city, but this surely gives new meaning to "pulling strings!"

Senegalese Book Stories

2010-07-31T06:43:00.008-05:00

Mr. Mamadou Diouf, a recent graduate from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, is originally from Senegal. We sat down with him recently to speak about books, libraries, reading, and more in his homeland.

Louisville Presbyterian Seminary

2010-07-28T06:24:00.015-05:00

The Ernest Miller White Library

One of the locations we visited during the ATLA conference this June was the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Believe me, when librarians go places..., well, they end up going to other libraries! Saturdays at the annual conference usually involve visiting one of the host institutions, and we always visit the libraries! So, this time we pay tribute to the Ernest Miller White Library. E.M. White was the librarian at the seminary from 1945-1985, a rather lengthy and distinguished time. As we took the tour, we were treated to a fine library, complete with a great collection, resource and computing labs, space-saving serials, rare books, and an antiquities display, among other fine items. The images below are in the reading room near serials (and I believe reference), as well as the computer lab.

This was one of my favorite spots: the Bob Benfield Alcove (for) Practical Theology. Who knew that there were alcoves for such things!? Heck, I want my own alcove for Practical Theology!

Above, in the same room. I found these windows to be rather attractive. They turned out to be faux stained glass, which folded out and revealed a clear window--but I was somewhat entranced by their design!

This may be a first for our blog--cuneiform texts! Tablets and Biblios! Certainly, these are relevent precursors to the book, the codex, the scroll. They needed to write somehow in ancient times, and what a way to preserve! I recall once being in a seminar in Jerusalem, in a class in Akkadian studies, and the professor told us about the new technologies used to read these tablets. You see, some of these are actually "letters." And the slightly "bulkier" ones (see second image below) are clay letters wrapped in clay "envelopes." Prior to the modern technology of scanning, these outer envelopes had to be destroyed in order to see the contents of the letters. Now, scientists simply scan the object and get layers of information, protecting the antiquity from destruction.

The immediate image below is Sumerian, and older language than Akkadian.

Near the compact shelving on another floor, there was a fine display of pottery and other items from the ancient world. And at the end of the hall...a rare book room. The E.M. White Library was a fine collection. If you're in the area, take a tour. I can't promise the world to my readers, but I'm pretty sure that you'll find a few curiousities along the way, and maybe a few good ideas. Who knows, maybe one of you will put your morning coffee down, and say, "ya know, I think I need to re-arrange my living room, and finally put up that alcove of practical theology!" You never know.