The Reporter: June 1997, Vol.8, No.3
Rare Book Finds Its Way Back to Library

Photo by Jonathan Smith

Archivist Robert Vietrogoski tells Carolyn Conway and Brenda Tracy the history of an antique book the two women found and returned to the Health Sciences Library. The book was found in an administrative office, although it was originally part of a set held in the library's special collection.

Here's a whodunit story straight out of Miss Marple. A book from the Health Sciences Library's historical book collection was found recently on a shelf in the Facilities Management Office when a staff member moved out of her old office. The book, an 1866 edition of Louis Pasteur's "Etudes sur le Vin," had been last checked out of the library in 1964, although it is still unknown how it ended up in facilities. When the library moved from what is now the Faculty Club in 1976 into the new Hammer Building, it's possible the book was left behind.

"Our library considers any book published before 1875 to be a rare book," says Robert Vietrogoski, archivist and records manager in the Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, "so if the book were taken in recent times, it was without permission." The library's historical collection does not circulate.

And to underscore the value of this book, Mr. Vietrogoski noted that this title sold for $700 in 1991. "We are also glad to have it back because it completes a set," he says. The errant book is one of three books Pasteur wrote on bacteria found in beer and wine. It is full of beautifully engraved illustrations and early molecular photographs.

The book was returned by Brenda Tracy, an administrative assistant in facilities management, and Carolyn Conway, manager of media relations, after Ms. Conway spotted the book on Ms. Tracy's desk. Although the two never had any doubts they'd return the book, when they heard of its value, they asked jokingly if there might be a reward. Perhaps a vintage bottle of wine?

Mr. Vietrogoski joined Columbia earlier this year and he has already uncovered some interesting cases since taking the position of archivist and records manager. "Every day, I find wild stuff. For instance, we seem to have what is the oldest surviving pre- and postoperative photographs in existence."

Mr. Vietrogoski received his master of library science degree from the University of Maryland and has archival experience from such prestigious institutions as the Smithsonian Institution and the Library of Congress.