Rare Books and Special Collections

Wedi cwblhau'r modiwl dylai'r myfyrwyr fedru:

1. Discuss the nature and purpose of rare books libraries and special collections
2. Outline and critically assess significant developments in the history of the printed book in Western Europe, especially in Britain
3. Identify and explain the principal characteristics of printed books in the hand-press period (up to 1850)
4. Analyse the main management issues facing the custodians of rare books and special collections;
5. Critically assess the provision of services offered by Rare Books Libraries and Special Collections
6. Select and apply the appropriate tools, standards, and procedures to manage a rare book collection

This module provides an introduction to working with rare books It provides an overview of the history and development of the book in the hand press period (up to c.1850) as well as strategies for managing their care, promotion and access.

This module is comprised of two strands. The first of these is concerned with the book as a physical artefact. Here we will explore the history of printing, with a particular focus on printing in Europe and England up to c.1850. We will explore how technology and book production develops in this period, including changes to illustration and binding. We will additionally consider the importance of books and libraries in terms of provenance research. The second part of the module is concerned with the curation of rare book collections. In this part of the module we will explore how to appropriately care for rare books to safeguard their future; how to develop your collections; and how to provide appropriate catalogues and procedures for accessing material. Although the focus of the module is on rare books up to 1850 we will additionally explore related items you might find in your collections, including newspapers, pamphlets, chapbooks, broadsides, fine press books, ephemera and other relevant items.

Mae'r modiwl hwn yn cydymffurfio a FfCChC Lefel 7