Jeremy Bentham’s books in UCL’s Special Collections

UCL Special Collections

An event exploring Jeremy Bentham’s book collection and ways in which it continues to shape UCL's library holdings today.

UCL Object Based Learning Laboratory, Wilkins Building, Main Campus

It has long been known that the 18th-century philosopher Jeremy Bentham bequeathed a number of his books to University College London (known at the time as the London University). But the contents of the bequest and the faith of the books had remained obscure. A recent discovery of an item-by-item list of the books in the UCL library archives by Colin Penman (UCL Head of Records) and a Bentham expert, Dr Tim Causer, sparked a project to uncover some of the Bentham's books in UCL's rare book collections, overseen by Erika Delbecque (UCL’s Head of Rare Books).Join UCL Special Collections to hear Colin, Tim, and Erika talk about the project, the discoveries that have been made so far, the process of identifying Bentham’s books, and their significance today.The original list of the Bentham's bequest, along with some of the books from his library (many heavily annotated by Bentham himself) will be on display during the event.This will be an in-person event at the Object Based Learning Lab (OBLL) at UCL’s main campus. The space offers step-free access and is wheelchair accessible.The event is free and open to all, but booking is essential. Our guide to the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/special-collections/a-z/bentham" title="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/special-collections/a-z/bentham" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Bentham Book Collection</a> offers a helpful introduction to our holdings as well as information about researching and accessing this collection.You can also read more about our ongoing research into Bentham’s bequest here: <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2024/jun/priceless-jeremy-bentham-books-found-ucl" title="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2024/jun/priceless-jeremy-bentham-books-found-ucl" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2024/jun/priceless-jeremy-bentham-books-found-ucl</a>.---Everyone can access UCL Special Collections digitally or in person. Our collections of rare, unique and historic archives &amp; books cover themes including history of UCL, education, arts and sciences. To find out more please visit our <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/special-collections" title="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/special-collections" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">website</a>.

Agenda

Panel discussion and collections display

Collections display and refreshments 

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