One of the main subjects in the Rotterdamsch Leeskabinet collection is books from and about Rotterdam. We acquire newly published titles but also collect old pamphlets and historic copies. This collection was initiated by bequests from the notary and amateur historian L.J.C.J. van Ravesteyn (1940) and former assistant librarian J.J. Walters (1973). Van Ravesteyn wrote several books on the history of the city, and many of the books in his private collection contain interesting annotations. Several maps of Rotterdam also belonged to Van Ravesteyn’s collection. Read more about this map collection in the (Dutch language) article by Roman Koot for cartography magazine Caert Thresoor.
In the open collection, under signature 90.65, you will find a selection of literary publications (novels, stories, poetry) by Rotterdam-based writers. Contemporary books on the history of the city are shelved at the signatures 15.70 eu-nroa to 15.70 eu-nroc. Previously published titles stored in our closed stacks may be requested via the catalogue.
