Pitts Theology Library’s summer exhibit features five centuries’ worth of books, maps, photographs and manuscripts from the collections of Atlanta Groliers in memory of David Parsons, a supporter of the library who died in 2014. Parsons also belonged to the Grolier Club, the country’s oldest and largest society for bibliophiles and graphic arts enthusiasts.

“Windows on the World: Atlanta Groliers Honor the Memory of David Parsons” runs from June 15 to August 15, 2015. The exhibit includes rare imprints of Robert Estienne’s press from the 16th century, autographed first editions of Gone with the Wind and To Kill a Mockingbird, manuscripts and books related to America’s third vice-president Aaron Burr, fine art photography, and Union General William T. Sherman’s map of Atlanta. View the exhibit catalog.

“David Parsons loved books, collected them with wisdom and grace, and was a noble friend of libraries,” says M. Patrick Graham, Pitts Library director and Grolier Club member. “His interests were international in scope and extended from the cradle of printing to modern accounts of travel and exploration.”

“This exhibit gives Atlanta collectors an opportunity to pay tribute their fellow Grolier Club member and celebrate his life and achievements in bibliography.” 

Founded in 1884 and named for French sixteenth century bibliophile Jean Grolier, The Grolier Club aims to foster the study, collecting, and appreciation of books and works on paper, their art, history, production, and commerce.

The exhibit is free and open to the public during Pitts Library’s normal business hours. The library is located on the campus of Emory University at 1531 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322. For more information, contact 404.727.4165. The library’s summer hours can be found here.