Treasures of the University of Canterbury Library

Explore the rich cultural and historical treasures of the University of Canterbury Library. Edited by esteemed scholars Chris Jones and Bronwyn Matthews, this essential volume captures the essence of New Zealand's heritage through its vast collections. Spanning 256 pages, this beautifully presented book delves into unique items that range from medieval European manuscripts to vital Maori whakapapa books. Each piece reflects the vibrant history not just of Christchurch, but of an evolving nation and the broader Pacific region. Gain insights from critical materials such as an original 1611 King James Bible, the archives of philosopher Karl Popper, and the Pacific Leprosy Foundation Archive. This work showcases reflections from Canterbury's academics and the wider community, revealing the stories and legacies behind these remarkable artifacts. Discover how these treasures serve as windows into the past and as catalysts for ongoing research opportunities in our digital age. Perfect for history enthusiasts, researchers, and anyone interested in New Zealand's fascinating narrative, this book will enrich your understanding of a settler society and the evolution of a university committed to preserving knowledge.

Author: Edited by Chris Jones and Bronwyn Matthews Publisher: Canterbury University Press


Pages: 256
Publication Date: 01-03-2012

The University of Canterbury is the guardian of a rich and varied inheritance, which is reflected in the diverse material held by its libraries. These collections enable us to discover not only the history of Christchurch, the South Island of New Zealand's largest city, but also into the history of an emerging nation and the broader Pacific region. Thie book presents reflections on some of the distinctive and exceptional items in the University's keeping. Written by Canterbury academics and members of the wider community, it considers material ranging from medieval European manuscripts to Maori whakapapa books. The items surveyed vary from an original printing of the 1611 King James Bible, to the papers of Karl Popper and the Pacific Leprosy Foundation Archive. Together these tell many stories. They offer insights into the minds of kings, intellectuals, musicians, artists and explorers. They chart the development of a university and the building of a community. They are a history of the written word, but also of a settler society. Canterbury's treasures offer fascinating windows onto the past and occasion to reflect on the present; they highlight many of the opportunities for future research opening up in an increasingly digital age.