A new library exhibit in the Raynor Memorial Libraries’ Department of Special Collections and University Archives, “Out of the Bindings: Maps in Rare Books of the 16th–19th Centuries,” illuminates the discoveries of 16th to 19th century explorers through maps published in their books.
The maps reflect explorations from around the world; as far-reaching as a map of the heavens, and as local as an agricultural survey of Suffolk, England. One example of the remarkable items on display is a 1798 map showing the Russian colonization of Alaska, identified then as “Alyazka,” that was published in Jean-Henri Castera’s The Life of Catharine II, Empress of Russia. The exhibit is part of Marquette’s rare book collection which provides research and instructional access to historical editions of important works in history, theology, literature and other topics.
The collection is located on the third floor of Raynor Library in the Prucha Reading Room and will be on display through September 2017. It is open to the Marquette community.
For questions contact Amy Cooper Cary, head of the Special Collections and University Archives at Raynor Memorial Libraries.