September 24, 2001 Center for the Book to Sponsor Nov. 1-3 Conference on the Histories of Reading and Writing

"Transactions of the Book," a conference to investigate the histories of reading and writing and the ways in which texts were transmitted and knowledge circulated in early modern Europe, will be held at the Folger Shakespeare Library on November 1-3. Sponsored by the Folger Institute at the Folger Shakespeare Library and organized by Anthony Grafton of Princeton University and Kathleen Lynch of the Folger Institute, the conference is supported in part by a financial contribution from the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.

"The history of reading, writing, and communication has been one of the Center for the Book's major interests since it was established in 1977," said John Y. Cole, the center's director. "We're pleased to be involved in this important interdisciplinary conference that brings together literary critics, social and political historians, bibliographers, editors, and others concerned with early manuscript and print culture."

For information about the conference contact the Folger Institute, Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington D.C. 20003-1094, telephone (202) 675-0333.

The Center for the Book in the Library of Congress was established in 1977 to stimulate public interest in books, reading, and libraries. Its program is supported by tax-deductible contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations. For information about its projects and publications and the activities of its affiliates in 42 states and the District of Columbia, consult its Web site at www.loc.gov/cfbook.