The Conference Announcement
An upcoming conference hosted by the V&A Research Institute, in partnership with the National Art Library and Archives, aims to delve into the vital role of books and archives as cultural artefacts. This event is set to occur on November 20-21, 2025, encouraging fresh perspectives on provenance research within literature and its impact on cultural heritage.
The Motivation Behind the Conference
This initiative arises from ongoing investigations into the collections at the V&A Museum, particularly focusing on how the Second World War influenced book acquisitions. Historical circumstances from 1933 to 1945 resulted in an alarming mass displacement of literature across Europe, with estimates reaching into the hundreds of millions. The conference is intended to examine how this movement transcended mere physical relocation and encompassed the reconstruction of cultural and financial value associated with these “migrant” materials.
Cultural and Economic Transformation
Amid the tragic displacement and suffering caused by war, the prevalence of bibliomigrancy transformed channels for book movement after 1945. The violent disruptions resulting from the war led to fragmented continental book collections, while new transnational and cross-cultural dynamics emerged. This period witnessed the rebirth of evaluative and distributive systems on an unprecedented scale. Various government programs, branded as ‘reconstructive’ or ‘reparative,’ not only stirred up further displacement but also engendered new practices within the book market.
The Flourishing Market
During this chaotic epoch, the book market flourished. Diverse sellers, ranging from opportunistic individuals to established dealers, engaged with an array of private collectors and institutional networks. The interaction among these activities was characterized by a blend of pragmatic and idealistic approaches, irrevocably altering the inherent meaning attached to each book throughout this tumultuous process.
Areas of Exploration
The conference welcomes the exploration of various themes surrounding bibliomigrancy. Participants can contribute insightful research related to:
- Diplomatic exchanges and state actions
- Postwar library construction initiatives by governmental or military authorities
- Case analyses of specific sellers and collectors
- The strategies of national libraries profiting from the turmoil
- The role of relief agencies and charities
- Actions of antiquarian book dealers and auction houses
- Commodification of sacred and ancient texts
- Analysis of fluctuating international book prices
Invitation for Proposals
Conference organizers are inviting proposals for 20-minute presentations. They especially encourage submissions from early career researchers, and informal conversations regarding potential topics are welcome. Interested participants should send an abstract (up to 250 words) along with a brief biography (up to 100 words) to the provided email address.
Key Deadlines
The deadline for abstract submissions is May 27, 2025. Notifications regarding the outcomes of proposals will be communicated by June 4, 2025.
Reflecting on Cultural Heritage Transformation
This historical moment of bibliomigrancy brings vital insights into how culture and literature intertwine, impacting the legacy that books leave behind. As we embrace these findings, how these cultural dynamics shape future narratives in literature cannot be overlooked. Engaging with this conference provides a unique opportunity for individuals to connect on this historical journey.
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