Events

Dedication of Hearn History of Writing & Printing

Created by Lenn & Dixie Hannon Library (See other events)
  • Dec 1, 2010 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm
  • Location: SOU's Hannon Library
  • Latest Activity: Nov 8, 2022
On December 1, 2010 at 3 p.m., Hannon Library will host a dedication event honoring the Lily Hearn History of Writing and Printing Collection, a newly showcased exhibit of manuscripts and artifacts permanently installed in the library. The event will begin with an opening ceremony at the exhibit on the second floor of the library, followed by a reception in the library’s Meese Room. Refreshments will be provided, and all are welcome to attend this free event.The Hearn Collection consists of 19 pieces, including rare and valuable examples of early writing and printing from various cultures from around the world. One of the oldest pieces is a 4,000-year old clay Sumerian tablet, inscribed with Cuneiform writing, dating from 2039 BCE. Another artifact, a piece of Egyptian statuary with hieroglyphs, dates from circa 1785-1660 BCE. Other pieces include medieval illuminated manuscripts, Sanskrit texts, and a rare Coptic scroll from Ethiopia measuring 7 feet in length.Hannon Library acquired the Hearn Collection last year when it was donated by the Hearn Family. Over the summer, the collection was rehoused in a new, custom-designed display located on the second floor of the library near Special Collections and the Margery Bailey Shakespeare and Renaissance Collection. Each piece is housed in a clear display and offset from the wall for maximum visibility. The exhibit is arranged chronologically, by the ages of the items, and begins with a world map showing the geographic origin of all the pieces.The collection was originally acquired over several decades by Lily Hearn and her husband, Joseph. While both were teaching at San Bernardino Valley College, Lily developed a popular course on the history of writing, printing and libraries, sharing items from her personal collection with her students. After moving to Ashland, she decided to make the collection again accessible to students. She hopes that this collection will inspire people “to appreciate the treasures that were developed over the long road to the technologically dominated present.”The Hearn Collection offers students an insight into the history of language, writing, and printing that goes beyond lectures and textbooks. Rogue Valley educators at all levels are encouraged to bring students to the exhibit and to incorporate this collection into lessons.
Tags: exhibit, dedication, &, reception
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