The KNIR special collections hold valuable treasures, which are the subject of important study and valorization projects. We are talking about a collection of more than a thousand rare books and other materials, from the sixteenth up to the twenty-first century, covering a wide array of topics. During this intensive course, students will gain hands-on experience in exploring the KNIR special collections from an interdisciplinary perspective. BA and (R)MA students in History of the Book, Italian Studies, History, Art- and Architectural History, Classics, Renaissance Studies, and related disciplines are encouraged to apply.
This year’s KNIR-practicum will be dedicated specifically to the legacy of Godefridus Johannes Hoogewerff (1884-1963), who became director of the Netherlands Institute in Rome exactly 100 years ago. Material related to his legacy ranges from books acquired during his directorship, prints related to his art-historical interests, plans connected to the design of the Villa in which the KNIR is currently housed, photographs, archive material, etc. This offers a wealth of opportunities to work with materials that have been part of the institute’s interests from the early beginnings, and to dive into the history of the KNIR itself as well, while also considering the current challenges the library faces in managing its special collections (care, accessibility, etc.). This material will also allow links with other library resources, with a view to integration and multidisciplinarity.
The course combines lectures and practical workshops with excursions to famous libraries and other sites in Rome. Before the course starts, students will choose a specific item for individual study from a preselected list of books and other materials in the KNIR collection. They will write a short essay on their item, as well as provide a short entry for the catalogue of the KNIR library. A first short version of the essay will be written before the course starts. During the course there are multiple self-study sessions where the students will be able to study their chosen item in person and write the longer and final version of the essay, as well as the catalogue entry. All participants work together on a (digital) exhibition that will be presented to the staff and KNIR community towards the end of the course.
Coordinator
Susanna de Beer (KNIR Director of Ancient Studies and Classical Reception)
Teaching Staff
Diana Giofrè (KNIR Head of the library), Susanna de Beer, Laura Overpelt (KNIR Director of Art History), several guest lecturers.
Target group and admission
The course is open to a maximum of 10 selected BA and (R)MA students in History of the Book, Italian Studies, History, Art- and Architectural History, Classics, Renaissance Studies, and related disciplines from KNIR partner universities (University of Amsterdam, Free University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, Utrecht University, Radboud University, University of Groningen)
Credits
The study load is the equivalent of 5 ECTS (140 hours). Each student should arrange with their university coordinator whether the course can be a part of their existing curriculum. After successful completion of the course, the KNIR provides a certificate mentioning study load and evaluation.
Costs
Tuition and lodging at the KNIR is free for selected participants from the above mentioned Dutch universities. Personal expenses, including meals, are not included. Students receive a reimbursement of their travelexpenses to Rome up to a maximum of €100 (or up to a maximum of €125 if they travel by train) after submission of their final essay.
Facilities in Rome
All participants will be housed at the Royal Netherlands Institute near Rome’s Villa Borghese Park. From there, it is only a short walk to the historical centre of Rome. The KNIR accommodation consists of shared bedrooms and bathrooms, and includes a living and dining space, a large kitchen, washing machine and wireless internet. All residents have 24/7 access to the library and gardens of the Royal Netherlands Institute.
Application and admission
The course is a selective course with a maximum of 10 participants. The selection of participants is based on grades, the added value of the course in the student’s curriculum, a letter of motivation, and the composition of the group. Students can apply via the link below; include in your application:
- a letter of motivation (max. 1 A4)
- a cv
- a recent list of courses followed and grades provided by your university
Apply before
15 september 2024
You will be notified about the outcome within two weeks. Please note that the decision of the selection committee is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
More info
E-mail: secretary@knir.it
Phone: (+39)063269621
