Since I was a little girl I have had a special appreciation for libraries, there is something in them that makes me very happy. It is a mixture between tranquility, knowledge and the smell of old books.
I've always had a good time inside one, I loved the libraries at my school and my university (University of Rochester), and now in Montreal, I've been visiting the libraries around here.
Today I want to talk about the National Library of Montreal located in Rosemont. This isn't the biggest library in the city, but it is one that has some not-so-common-to-find documents.
Its visiting hours are reduced, since it stores specialized collections. And it is necessary to make an appointment in order to use its facilities. You will indicate the books that you want to review, and they will be pull out for you.
Over the summer I did just that. I sent an email asking about some bookbinding books that interested me. The next day I received the confirmation of my appointment and directions to the library. Unlike the main library in Montreal (BANQ), getting to the Rosemont location isn't as easy, but it's totally worth it.
Among its 10 collections we can find:
- Posters
- Geographic maps and plans
- Post cards
- Stamps
- Phamplets
- Documentary Iconography
- Old books
- Artist's books and bibliophile's works
- Art bookbindings
- Show programs
All of them kept under high conservation standards. Once I got to the library, I was not allowed in with a backpack, so there were lockers outside the consulting room. I could have my cell phone, a pencil and paper with me. In addition, it was mandatory to use nitrile gloves while handling the books.
The librarian the books I wanted to review ready. In addition, she had pulled others that she believed would be of interest to me. Although I could not make photocopies, photographs for personal use were allowed.
At the exit of the consultation room there was a permanent exhibition on printmaking called "Memories of paper". Here are some photos, if you're new to this blog probably you don't know that before I started bookbinding I did printmaking. As you can see they go hand in hand.
What's your opinion on this review? Leave me your comments!
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