Alcuin Library Special Collections
  Gratian. 'Decretum.' Basel: Michael Wenssler, 5 September 1482. Folio. [381] leaves. 406 x 295 mm. Gothic type; 76 lines per page with 2-column inset text surrounded by commentary. Printed on paper; initial letters added in red and blue; hand rubricated. Saint John's Rare Book Collection. Henry, Bishop of Bayeux, to William, Abbot of Saint-Etienne at Caen, 1172. Manuscript charter on vellum. 415 x 300mm. 28 lines. Saint John's Rare Book Collection. '[Grammatica latina].' Italy, late 15th century. Manuscript on vellum. 129 (of 130) leaves. 229 x 146 mm. Humanistic cursive script, 25 lines. Gathering of five sheets. Original stamped calf binding. Elizabeth I, Queen of England. Letter to the Earl of Morton, Regent of Scotland, dated September 26, 1575, from Woodstock.

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Mission Statement

The Saint John's Rare Book Collection preserves the historic volumes that are the foundation of today's Alcuin Library collection as well as other rare and valuable books acquired by the monastic and university communities. The preservation of these handwritten and printed books makes them available for use in the educational work of Saint John's University and the College of Saint Benedict, for consultation by scholars, and for exhibition. 

Art, Word, and Spirit: The Treasures of St John's

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