An overview of the field. Introduction to the history, purpose, functions, and processes of the field, its place in society, practice of the profession in various types of settings, and current issues and trends.

Theoretical and applied research design, methodologies, and evaluations in library and information science. Review of existing research in the field, techniques of proposal preparation, and design of Instruments used in the field.

Syllabus (http://newyorkbooks.org/stam/syllabus-514spr05.htm)

As an introduction to the physical forms of "the book," this course surveys historical examples from medieval manuscripts to the electronic book, with a strong emphasis upon the history of printing from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Students in this course become acquainted with recognized icons of the western book and with theoretical approaches to interpreting "the book" in its broadest sense. They gain first-hand experience with the intellectual tools of the book historian's trade including vocabulary, illustrations, bibliography in its various manifestations, sources, major collections, and bibliographic institutions. By the conclusion of the course, students are able to communicate in professional terms with experts in book history and to function as interpreters of the book for an interested public.

Examines the characteristics, criteria, and appraisal of book materials. Historical background, principles, and practice of rare book librarianship. The organization, administration, collection building, maintenance, preservation, exhibition, publication, special problems, and use of rare books in all settings.

Syllabus (http://newyorkbooks.org/stam/syllabus-713spr2006.htm)

Assignment 3, Spring 2006
(http://newyorkbooks.org/stam/713-bookreviewassn-1-06.htm)

Artists' books, according to Johanna Drucker, are the contemporary expression of a tradition that builds on "fine printing, independent publishing, the craft tradition of book arts, conceptual art, painting and other traditional arts, politically motivated art activity and activist production, performance of both traditional and experimental varieties, concrete poetry, experimental music, computer and electronic arts, and last but not least, the tradition of the illustrated book..." Students will examine examples of artists' books in studios, galleries, museums, and libraries; discuss contemporary work with book artists and collectors; and consider the place of artists' books in library collections. Library issues will include selection, conservation/preservation, and use.

This course will count as a "History of the Book" course for those in the Rare Book and Special Collections concentration. Artist Mindy Belloff teaches a significant segment of the course (2005-06) in her studio (Intima Press). The location will be the Palmer School's site at Bobst Library (NYU) and various libraries (especially rare book collections), artists' studios, museums, and galleries in New York City and Brooklyn.

All Palmer School of Library and Information Science Course Descriptions
(http://www.cwpost.liu.edu/cwis/cwp/cics/palmer/courses/index.html)