LIS 452 History of Libraries
This course covers the history of libraries from earliest times to the present day. It includes specific institutions, trends in service and facilities, and individuals important in the development of these institutions. While the primary focus of the course is libraries in the Western World, consideration of libraries in other traditions will be covered as source material allows. The objectives of the course include gaining a broad perspective on the history of libraries, an understanding of the history of libraries in the context of socio-cultural, political and economic developments, and an understanding of historical methods both through the analysis of primary sources related to the history of libraries and through critical reading of texts on the history of libraries. Course material includes lecture, discussion, and field trips. Assignments include several writing assignments and in-class presentations.