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Senator Jubelirer on PA’s Rare Book Collection
Thomas Jefferson famously wrote that he could not
live without books. He collected what might have been the most substantial
library of his time. Yet I suspect that even Jefferson might be impressed by
the volumes that are the topic today.
A great deal of what is contained in
Pennsylvania’s rare book collection predates Jefferson’s time. This collection
is an absolute state treasure. These volumes contain the wisdom of William Penn
and Benjamin Franklin. Franklin had a hand as author, printer, or acquisitor of
key works. There are maps and bibles and books of art. There are the
proceedings from the beginning of the General Assembly and old newspapers that
detail colonial days and early statehood.
This collection is illuminating, indispensable,
and irreplaceable. Whether for the professional historian, or the amateur
history buff, or someone with a casual interest in the Commonwealth or the
colony of long ago, this is an incredible resource. We can all remember the
childhood world of wonder when we were lost in our favorite books. There is a
similar fascination factor in all that is contained within this collection. We
are obliged to protect and preserve these volumes for future generations.
The bad news is that this collection is at risk.
We are blessed with dedicated and conscientious people doing all they can to
ensure the endurance of the rare books collection. But Pennsylvania must commit
the money needed to ensure the environment in which they are kept, so that these
precious volumes will not deteriorate. Many are extremely fragile, as might be
expected with books that are aged and well-used. The money has been designated;
all it takes is the determination of priority.
We have spent a great deal of money to restore
this Capitol. This Rotunda showcases the spectacular results. Yet this Capitol
has not reached its centennial yet. It requires fewer dollars to save something
more historic and more vital.
This event has two purposes: to shine the
spotlight on this incredible collection, and to focus public attention and
support on the steps needed to preserve it.
A popular slogan had it that reading is
fundamental. Our efforts must be directed to saving some of the most
fundamental reading about our Commonwealth, our communities, and our democracy.
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