It was a last-minute invitation from Eve Kahn to visit one of her favorite libraries in New York, or so it seemed giving the enthusiasm with which she introduced us (I was visiting NY with my son William) to this extraordinary site. And to be absolutely fair, it was more than just an invitation it was a guided tour for which Eve was a superb host.
The visit left a profound impression on both of us, particularly the current exhibit labeled "Treasures from the Hispanic Society Library." My only regret is not to have had more time to spend amongst the walls of that jewel of a building. Come to thing of it, I wonder if Borges ever stood there where we stood. Perhaps the reader could google that one… I have a strange feeling, perhaps a premonition that not before long I will be back with the answer.
Now, from the Grolier’s Clunb site: “Founded in 1884, the Grolier Club is America’s oldest and largest society for bibliophiles and enthusiasts in the graphic arts. Named for Jean Grolier (1489/90-1565), the Renaissance collector renowned for sharing his library with friends, the Club’s objective is to promote “the study, collecting, and appreciation of books and works on paper.” Through the concerted efforts of an international network of over eight hundred men and women—book and print collectors, antiquarian book dealers, librarians, designers, fine printers, binders, and other artisans—the Grolier Club pursues this mission through its library, its public exhibitions and lectures, and its long and distinguished series of publications.”