Special Collections Librarian Joins Staff

Michael Knies joined the Weinberg Memorial Library faculty librarian staff on Nov. 18.1996, as the new Special Collections Librarian. Michael is originally from Lansford, Pa. He holds a B.A. in Philosophy, a B.A. in Classical Studies and an M.A. in American Studies all from Pennsylvania State University. He earned his Master's in Library Service from Rutgers in 1996. Before coming to the University Michael served for more than eight years as the Collections Manager/Archivist at the National Canal Museum in Easton.

 

Several projects are at the top of Michael's agenda in his first months. Most important of these is the organization of the Joseph Polakoff papers donated to the Library this past year. Michael will also be reorganizing and expanding the University Archives. The upcoming exhibition of and lecture on the recently donated Book of Kells facsimile are also on the calendar (see accompanying article). In June the Archives will have an Alumni Reunion exhibit, and in fall 1997 there will be an Alumni Association 50th anniversary exhibition as well.

 

Michael's interests include anthracite history. He is currently working on a photographic history of anthracite mining.