As established in previous posts, the Beran Library is a literal treasure trove full relics from years past. Our collection of Catholic & theology resources is not just limited to books and databases. The Beran Library has a rich collection of over 700 pamphlets.
Dedicated librarian Ashley Pitts has been working to provide better access to these materials by systematically weeding and cataloging the individual items for our online catalog. A tiresome project that occasionally provides some comic relief by the well-meaning, though misguided, pre-Vatican II pamphlets. With titles like “How Wives Fail in Marriage” it’s hard not to chuckle a little.
(clockwise) “How Wives Fail in Marriage,” “Purity and Power,” “Frequent and Early Communion,” and “What Every Catholic Should Know.”
As an Art History graduate I am drawn to the pamphlets 1960′s bold textual cover designs. Neon and psychedelic colors, harsh diagonal lines, and sans-serif fonts; simplistic design and copy you don’t see much of these days (who’s stoked about the new season of Mad Men?!).
A selection of these pamphlets are on display in the foyer of the Cardinal Beran Library. Take a look at them and then browse our ever improving pamphlet collection in the Library’s reference room.
I am stoked about the new season of Mad Men! Except that I have to wait til it comes out on Netflix since I don’t have cable.