Distinguished Lecture
Jefferson’s Taper and the Future of Books
Speaker: Professor Robert Darnton
Carl H. Pforzheimer University Professor at Harvard University and Director of the Harvard University Library
Date: Monday 5 December 2011
Location: School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University
On Monday 5th December 2011, Professor Robert Darnton, Harvard University will deliver Cardiff University’s Distinguished Lecture on the subject of Jefferson’s Taper and the Future of Books.
A leading cultural historian who is internationally recognised for his research into books, digital scholarship and French cultural history, Professor Darnton’s lecture will illuminate the campaign to create a Digital Public Library of America.
Taking Thomas Jefferson as his starting point, Professor Darnton will trace the journey of the exchange of ideas, from Jefferson’s Taper to the commercialisation of the internet.
Jefferson compared the exchange of ideas to the transfer of light from one candle to another - a process in which one person gained while the other did not lose. Professor Darnton will argue that although the internet seems to translate Jefferson’s ideal into a viable system of communication, commercial interests are exploiting digital technology in order to fence off large parts of our cultural commons. As a result, these commercial interests may dominate the future of books. He will cite the campaign to create a Digital Public Library of America as an answer to that threat.
Professor Darnton’s lecture is part of Cardiff University’s high-profile Distinguished Lecture Series. The series brings eminent and influential guest speakers to the University and a wider audience to showcase their work.
The lecture takes place at the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Maindy Road on 5th December. A pre-lecture reception commences at 6.00pm, followed by the lecture at 6.30pm.
To view this lecture please click here http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dls/