The Web site of WRC-TV in Washington is reporting that the branch of the DC Public Library in the District?s historic Georgetown neighborhood is on fire. From the story: Its Peabody Room contains a special collection of items pertaining to the history of Georgetown. The fire chief told Spencer that they are aware of the …
The Library of Congress has been known for its “American Treasures” and “World Treasures” exhibitions, but more recently, we have been hosting “National Treasure.” Or, more precisely, “National Treasure: Book of Secrets,” the sequel to the hit 2004 Disney film. I’m prohibited — at least for now — from talking much about the film. That’s …
Wow, in business barely three days, and I already have to apologize for “light blogging.” What a day it has already been! In addition to dealing with a parking glitch that has had me spending far too much time trying to keep from being towed by the good people of the District of Columbia, I …
The New York Times reports on the makeshift shrines that have been erected to the victims of the Virginia Tech shooting rampage, and the role the Library of Congress will play in helping ensure their preservation. From the article (registration required): University officials are consulting with experts from the Library of Congress, which compiled materials …
The AP covers congressional consideration of a measure to officially recognize the 1507 Waldseemueller Map, which is owned by the Library of Congress and which celebrates its 500th anniversary tomorrow. (This is quite a week for Library of Congress birthdays!) It is the first document of any kind to refer to the Western Hemisphere as …
I just noted the passing of famed writer and historian David Halberstam. Halberstam spoke at the Library’s 2002 National Book Festival. You can see a portion of his remarks in a webcast here.
Those were the first words ever transmitted electronically, in 1844, by Samuel Morse. That message and Morse’s invention of the telegraph marked what was undeniably, at the time, the most significant communications revolution since the advent of movable type. If you are reading this, then chances are you have some sense of how the …