This is a MapHist list message (when you hit 'reply' you're replying to the whole list) o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o + o +
Dear John, While I don't speak for the NYPL, in my opinion, there was nothing like security concerns. The Map Society has been extend several privileges when it comes to rare maps and books at the library. I believe that the situation mostly arose from the restructuring of the library that's been ongoing for almost two years now. >From having new President, Dr. Anthony Marx, come in a few months ago, to the replacement of Department Heads and building managers, the library has gone over one of the most massive corporate overhauls I've ever seen. Matt and Kate had to take over for Alice Hudson after she left having given the library almost 40 years of service. Basically, the Map Society wasn't exactly the first priority. The Map Society was having problems with the schedule and meeting space for quite some time. It was becoming impossible to book speakers while not knowing exactly what room we were meeting in or how much time we were allotted, etc.etc. Then as people came and went, different rules were imposed on us and the situation became confusing. Finally we had to say,"hey guys, what about us?" Only we had to be a bit more forceful. We've already exchanged emails with Matt regarding a possible event in March celebrating Mercator's birthday. Depending on what we do, it might include the Map Division, the Map Society, the Mercator Society and the Mid Manhattan branch. On top of that, Matt said the NYPL might be able to supply us alcohol for the event if it works out with the Mercator Society schedule. When anyone makes the offer of booze, I think it's safe to say that all's well on the Western Front. Best, Heather >First of all, I can't say how pleased I am to hear this news! When >this news was posted it here it simply made no sense. >I realize that this is probably an impolitic question to ask, ;-) but >what was the problem and why are the meetings across the street? Was >it a question of increased security? >Why did the Library just summarily say no, rather than working with a >group that is clearly a great supporter of the Library to find a >solution? This whole things seems quite perplexing and unfathomable. Take care, John
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