Lost Libraries, Lost Memory

A site-specific installation by Holly A. Senn

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What it's about

This art work seeks to expose the number of very recent lost libraries. The books, journals and manuscripts collected and circulated by libraries enable ideas to be exchanged, and thus lead to new lines of inquiry. As institutions, libraries protect and promote thoughts, memories and cultures. While the destruction of the library in Alexandria, Egypt in 391 A.D. is an oft cited tragedy, lesser publicized is the great number of libraries that have been destroyed throughout the world during the 20th and 21st centuries by natural causes (e.g., earthquakes, flooding) and human intervention (e.g., riots, wars).

Blank canvas: the empty space

How it began

Through research I accumulated a list of destroyed libraries. Although the list is not exhaustive, it represents extensive damage to world documentary heritage. Lost Libraries, Lost Memory seemed like an apt theme since libraries store a collective memory that spans centuries. This site-specific installation builds upon two key elements of the PLU Mortvedt Library site--the space is located within a library and features two large columns. I decided to use the image of columns as a metaphor for libraries and the ideas of history, foundation, institution and protection.

Planning how to make the column bases and capitals

Transporting armature supplies

Creating a column base

Pipe insulation & toothpicks are critical

Creating a capital

Capital armature complete

At this point my studio was a mess

Covering the armatures with book pages

Capital and base mostly covered

On-site set up begins

Attaching a base

Adding imagery

While two intact columns are present, a ruined one stands amongst a sea of books. The destroyed libraries are identified by name, location and year lost-they are dissipating from a cloud of columns overhead. The falling book pages and ruined column pieces serve as reminders of the cultural and intellectual artifacts that are lost each time a library is destroyed.