ALISS (Association of Librarians and Information professionals in the Social Sciences).
are pleased to announce a visit to
Conway Hall
the world’s oldest archive of free thought and humanism.
1st July 2-3.30pm approx.
Since 1886, Conway Hall Humanist Library and Archives has been a haven for the radicals, political and social reformers and freethinkers wo dared to dream of
a better world. The first incarnation of the library at the Society’s then home, South Place Chapel, Finsbury, appeared at a time when public lending libraries were scarce, and self-education was being promoted. Members of the Society proposed that a library
be instated, and the first donations were requested from the membership. Beginning as a general lending library offering a wide-ranging collection of diverse subjects to suit the needs of the membership, the library has since evolved and grown to become the
country’s only specialist humanist library. It incorporates the library of the Rationalist Press Association, the Stanton Coit Library, and the National Secular Society’s Library and Archives.
the afternoon will include: a tour covering the history of Conway Hall Ethical Society, the architecture of the building, an overview of some key individuals in our history and
the history of humanism, and an overview of other collections with a chance to meet staff and view some items from the archives.
https://conwayhall.org.uk/library/
25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, London WC1R 4RL
Date:
July 1st 2- 3.30
approx.
approx
Visit is free to ALISS members
£5 to non-members
To sign up contact
Heather Dawson
ALISS Secretary
LSE Library
10 Portugal Street
WC2A 2HD