Upcoming Lecture: History of Victoria University Library

Victoria University Library, 1926.
Baldwin Collection of Canadiana, Toronto Public Library.

I will be giving a lecture on my current research project about the history of Victoria University Library.

Here is a brief synopsis of the content:

My current project analyzes the library as a site of institutional memory. Charlotte Linde extends Pierre Nora’s influential exploration of '‘ieux de mémoire’ to argue that buildings and other spatially defined places are ‘sites of memory’ that contribute to the shaping of a coherent, institutional tradition and identity. Linde’s approach shifts the focus on the library from a repository of books and provider of academic services and study spaces to an institutional workplace with collective experiences and memories. Victoria librarians established both general and special collections, catalogued and classified books and other materials, curated exhibitions, produced scholarly publications, provided leadership during strenuous and transformative times, and thus made distinct intellectual contributions to the institutional prestige of Victoria University.

The lecture will take place on Wednesday, October 24th, at 2:00 pm, at the Alumni Hall, Victoria College.