Lewis Walpole Library

Horace_Walpole_1768

Lewis Walpole Library

The Lewis Walpole Library is a research library for eighteenth-century studies and the prime source for the study of Horace Walpole and his times. It is located in Farmington, Connecticut, and is part of Yale University. The library was established by W. S. Lewis, a Yale alumnus, who dedicated his life to collecting materials related to Horace Walpole and his circle.

History

The library was founded in 1930 by W. S. Lewis, who began collecting materials related to Horace Walpole in the 1920s. Lewis's collection grew to include thousands of books, manuscripts, prints, and drawings. In 1979, the collection was bequeathed to Yale University, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations of scholars.

Collections

The Lewis Walpole Library houses an extensive collection of materials from the eighteenth century, including:

• Books and pamphlets
• Manuscripts
• Prints and drawings
• Paintings and decorative arts

The library's holdings are particularly strong in the areas of British art, literature, history, and culture of the eighteenth century. The collection includes many rare and unique items, such as first editions of works by Horace Walpole, Samuel Johnson, and Alexander Pope.

Research and Scholarship

The Lewis Walpole Library supports research and scholarship through its collections, fellowships, and public programs. The library offers fellowships to scholars at all stages of their careers, providing them with the opportunity to conduct research using the library's collections. The library also hosts lectures, conferences, and exhibitions that highlight its holdings and promote the study of the eighteenth century.

Facilities

The library is housed in a historic building in Farmington, Connecticut, which includes reading rooms, exhibition spaces, and offices. The library's facilities are designed to support research and scholarship, with state-of-the-art technology and resources available to researchers.

Related Pages

• Horace Walpole
• Yale University
• Eighteenth-century studies
• W. S. Lewis