Books, hoodies and arctic scenery on the agenda at Uni talks series

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Books, hoodies and arctic scenery on the agenda at Uni talks series

4 Feb 2008 16:55:59

A lifelong book collector and seller will explore the 'Romance of the Book' in a public lecture at the University of Bedfordshire Theatre on 21 February.

The University’s former Head of English, Roger Strangwick, will be looking at the history of the book from its handwritten origins, to the mass produced best-sellers of the present day.

He said: “There is a certain magic in books, which is why so many people become collectors. Even with today’s modern print technology the book retains its ability to enthral and captivate.

“Books can also be valuable. People often do not realise that sitting on a bookshelf or languishing in an attic can be a volume worth a small fortune. First editions by writers such as JK Rowling, Ruth Rendall, Graham Green and CS Lewis can sell for thousands of pounds.”

Roger will focus on a variety of collecting fields including topography, books for children, illustration and antiquarian. He will also bring in examples from his own collection and can value books brought in by members of the audience.

It has been organised under the ‘Bedford Talks’ series of public lectures, which includes leading authorities speaking about their areas of expertise.

On 6 March Dr Jack Fawbert, Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Criminology, will give a talk entitled ‘Hoodies: Moral Panic or Justifiable Concern’. He will discuss whether the term ‘hoodie’ is an example of moral panic, or whether the media is articulating justifiable concerns people have about young people and street crime.

The Bedford Talks series will take place at the University’s theatre in Polhill Avenue. Doors open at 7pm and entry is £2 (free with concessions).

Also taking place in one of the University lecture theatres on February 19, world record holding solo sailor David Cowper, who has made five circumnavigations around the globe, will be giving a public talk on ‘Scenery and Wildlife of the Polar Regions’. The event has been organised by the Bedford Offshore Sailing Group (BOSG).

Doors open at 7.30pm and entry costs £3. For further information contact BOSG Secretary Bernie Jones on 01234 750086.

Bedfordshire University

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