The untold story of the greatest library of the Renaissance and its creator Hernando Coln
This engaging book offers the first comprehensive account of the extraordinary projects of Hernando Coln, son of Christopher Columbus, which culminated in the creation of the greatest library of the Renaissance, with ambitions to be universalthat is, to bring together copies of every book, on every subject and in every language. Prez Fernndez and WilsonLee situate Hernandos projects within the rapidly changing landscape of early modern knowledge, providing a concise history of the collection of information and the origins of public libraries, examining the challenges he faced and the solutions he devised. The two authors combine meticulous research with deep and original thought, shedding light on the history of libraries and the organization of knowledge. The result is an essential reference text for scholars of the early modern period, and for anyone interested in the expansion and dissemination of information and knowledge.
Discover the fascinating untold story of Hernando Coln, son of Christopher Columbus, and his ambitious quest to build the greatest library of the Renaissance with "Hernando Colon's New World of Books: Toward a Cartography of Knowledge," meticulously researched and captivatingly written by Jos Mara Prez Fernndez and Edward Wilson-Lee. Beyond the voyages of his famous father, Hernando Coln carved his own indelible mark on history. This book unveils his intellectual journey and unwavering dedication to assembling a universal library a collection intended to encompass every book, on every subject, and in every language. Imagine a single location holding the sum total of human knowledge, a concept revolutionary for its time! Prez Fernndez and Wilson-Lee delve into the Herculean task Coln undertook, exploring the methods he employed to acquire, catalogue, and preserve an astonishing number of volumes. "Hernando Colon's New World of Books" is more than just a biography; it's a deep dive into the evolving landscape of early modern knowledge. The authors expertly contextualize Coln's project within the burgeoning print culture of the 16th century, a period of unprecedented intellectual ferment and dissemination of ideas. The book explores the challenges Coln faced from securing funding and navigating complex networks of book traders to devising innovative organizational systems that prefigured modern library science. He was a visionary who understood the power of accessible information, laying the groundwork for the public libraries we benefit from today. Uncover the intricacies of Coln's bibliographic endeavors, including his pioneering efforts to create detailed book summaries and indexes, systems designed to unlock the treasures within his vast collection. Learn about the meticulous annotations and cross-referencing that transformed his library into a powerful tool for scholarship and discovery. The authors also shed light on the ultimate fate of this remarkable collection, piecing together the story of its dispersal and the lasting impact it had on subsequent generations of scholars and book lovers. Jos Mara Prez Fernndez and Edward Wilson-Lee bring their expertise to bear on this compelling narrative, blending historical rigor with engaging storytelling. Their book is a testament to the enduring power of books and the individuals who dedicate their lives to preserving and sharing them. Whether you're a scholar of the Renaissance, a librarian, a bibliophile, or simply someone fascinated by the history of ideas, "Hernando Colon's New World of Books" offers a rich and rewarding reading experience. Prepare to be transported to a world where knowledge was power, and one man's vision shaped the future of libraries and the organization of information. Its a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the book, the development of libraries, and the intellectual landscape of the Renaissance. Explore the origins of knowledge management and the relentless pursuit of a universal library with this essential and insightful book.