October 25, 2016
K-State Libraries kicks off 'Wisdom of the Ages' lecture series featuring Archimedes, Galileo and Newton
Liberty and dignity, cornerstones of our nation's spirit, have long been expressed in great books. This fall, Kansas State University Libraries host "Wisdom of the Ages," an exhibit of written works that have shaped the course of history.
The interdisciplinary exhibit includes rare copies of the Emancipation Proclamation, Magna Carta and dozens of first editions. To engage the public more fully with the items included in the exhibit, the K-State Libraries will host a lecture series featuring several K-State faculty as well as local community members.
K-State Libraries will kick off the lecture series with "The History of Math and Science" from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27. Three K-State faculty members will discuss some of the greatest mathematicians and scientists. Andy Bennett, professor and department head of mathematics, will discuss the life and intellect of Archimedes, the greatest mathematician, physicist and engineer of the ancient world. Chris Sorensen, university distinguished professor of physics, and Scott Tanona, associate professor of philosophy, will explore the key roles of Galileo Galilei and Isaac Newton in the scientific revolution.
The final list of lectures will be announced soon. All lectures will take place in Hale Library's Hemisphere Room on the fifth floor. Following the lectures, guests can visit the exhibit to handle materials out of their cases.
"We are excited to feature many talented faculty and community members with expertise in various fields in this lecture series. They will undoubtedly bring this exhibit, and the materials within it, to life," said Lori Goetsch, dean of K-State Libraries.
The exhibit is on loan from the Remnant Trust, a public educational foundation. The Remnant Trust shares its growing collection on the topics of individual liberty and human dignity through traveling exhibits. "Wisdom of the Ages" will be available on the second floor of Hale Library through Dec. 16. To see a full list of items in the exhibit visit lib.ksu.edu/events.
K-State librarians are on hand from 11 a.m. to noon and 2-3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to assist visitors who would like the unique opportunity to handle and read the books. Additionally, teachers and community groups who would like to bring a class to "Wisdom of the Ages" are welcome to make an appointment with a librarian by emailing libexhibits@k-state.edu.
Librarians also will be available to assist the public on Nov. 19 for a special community day. Times will be announced at a later date.
"Wisdom of the Ages" is made possible by the K-State Office of the President.