Collins Unbound

On April 16^th, the University of Puget Sound Archives & Special Collections welcomed 20 fifth graders from McCarver Elementary School.  The students visited the University of Puget Sound to learn about college.  Visiting Collins Memorial Library was an option for a select few students who were interested in rare books.  During their visit the fifth graders got a tour of the library from the director, Jane Carlin, ending in the Shelmidine room to see the rare books.  Jane showed the students manuscripts and volumes, some of which dated back to 1475, and students were even given the opportunity to handle them!

Next the students were shown some of Archives & Special Collection’s artists’ books. Artists’ books are pieces of artwork in book form. From a book made of model train pieces to a “txt msg” edition of Romeo and Juliet, an artists’ book can truly be anything the creator puts their mind to. After the students were inspired by a few of the artists’ books in the Library’s collection, they were encouraged to make their own! The students were given the option of making accordion fold books or step books and were provided with plenty of pictures, magazine clippings, and ribbon to become artists themselves.  After plenty of craft time and taking a peak at the Collin Memorial Library’s very own printing press, it was time to leave.  Having their youthful presence in the Library and being able to share the treasures of the Archives & Special Collections was an absolute blast and we hope they come back soon!

By Adriana Flores