The family of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz and King George III were avid fans of the theater, sometimes even inviting famous actors to their homes for play-readings. At the center of their enthusiasm for the theater is an extensive collection of English drama collected by Princess Augusta Sophia, George and Charlotte's second-oldest daughter. Join us as we learn about the royal family's bibliophilia and this collection's fascinating journey on its way to a home at UNC Charlotte centuries later, in 1971.

But this was just the beginning of rare-book collecting at Atkins Library! We will also glimpse highlights from the next 50 years of acquisitions and learn the rich histories of many of the rare and distinctive books that have fascinated students and scholars alike for generations. Among the books discussed will be Moby Dick, Leaves of Grass, and works by Phillis Wheatley and Frederick Douglass.

Speakers: Andrew Keener, UNC Charlotte Honors Program, and Robin Brabham, founding director of Special Collections at Atkins Library.