I cannot believe I am almost 3 semesters in and I JUST went to Kroch library. I learned so much from the time we were there that I made myself go back to explore the present exhibit, Gods and Scholars.
During the presentation, I learned that there is more to Cornell than Mann, Uris, and Olin; There are 18 libraries on campus, including the Carl A. Kroch Library which is full of primary sources and artifacts. In fact, they even have a vault in there which is the most secure place on the Cornell campus. It is the size of a football field and completely environmentally controlled to protect the many artifacts. In the vault is also Ezra Cornell’s bank safe.
The coolest part of this visit was seeing a lock of Charles Dicken’s hair, the plans for Charlotte’s Web, and a book of Shakespeare’s collection.
All in all, super great event!
I would have never guessed that a vault that large would exist in one of Cornell’s libraries! After reading your post, I definitely plan to visit the Kroch library myself.
I also attended this event, and just like you, I had never stepped foot in Kroch until that day. It’s insane that a large number of students aren’t aware of the amazing artifacts and rare books Cornell stores under the Arts Quad… I definitely plan on going back and visiting Kroch when they run special exhibits!