Library honors writer's legacy

Williams

he Rare Books and Special Collections Library is spotlighting the literary career of John Williams, one of the honorary degree recipients at this year's Commencement, with a reading by the author at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 17, and the unveiling of an exhibition of material reflecting more than 40 years of his influential career.

Considered one of the finest African-American writers of his generation, Williams drew particular acclaim for his 1967 novel The Man Who Cried I Am, which painted the realism of 20th-century life for black Americans. In more than 20 published works of fiction and nonfiction from essays and short stories to poetry, his writing confronts racial prejudice and the inevitable problems that result.

Writings of Consequence: The Art of John A. Williams, an exhibit on display from May 17 to September 30, includes prime documents from Williams's correspondence, manuscript notes and drafts, memorabilia, and photographs held at the University. Both the exhibition and the reading are free and open to the public. A reception will follow Saturday afternoon's reading.

The day after his reading, Williams will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the University for his contributions to American literature.

Hours for the exhibit are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. (For summer hours beginning June 2, visit www.lib.rochester.edu/rbk/rarehome.htm.)

For more information on the exhibit, call x5-4477.

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