Special Collections update

Warren Kuhn, Dean Emeritus of the University Library, recently donated nineteen G. A. Henty books to the Special Collections Department. These volumes are a valuable addition to the department's existing collection of books by this popular author of boys' adventure stories. Among the books donated are: With the British Legion: A Story of the Carlist Wars; Brains and Bravery; and, Through Russian Snows, a Story of Napoleon's Retreat from Moscow.

G. A. Henty (1832-1902) served in the British Army during the Crimean War and subsequently was a reporter and war correspondent for London newspapers. His first novel for boys, Out on the Pampas:, or, The Young Settlers, was published in 1871. Henty's books aimed to instill good morals in his young readers, and they typically featured historical settings and a young hero whose strong character and resourcefulness lead him to succeed. While he is best known for his children's books, Henty also wrote adult novels and non-fiction, edited a number of boys' magazines, and contributed short stories to various compilations and boys' magazines.

Several of these newly acquired books are still being cataloged and are not yet available for use. Once processing is completed, the books will be available to patrons in the Special Collections Reading Room, 403 Parks Library (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).

For more information concerning resources and services in the Special Collections Department, see the department's web page, or contact department staff at (515) 294-6672 or by e-mail at spclref@iastate.edu.