Libraries of Russia: Conference “Voltaire’s Readings – 2011”, celebrating 150 years since donation of Voltaire’s Library to the Imperial Public Library

On December 5th 2011 the National Library of Russia (Main Building) in St. Petersburg is running the International scientific conference “Voltaire’s Readings – 2011”, which is marking 150th anniversary of Voltaire’s Library’s donation to the Imperial Public Library.

The keynote speakers include eminent scholars and researchers of Voltaire’s life and career from Russia, France, and Switzerland. Reports will address the history of Voltaire’s Library, its mysteries and riddles.

Voltaire’s Library was purchased by Russian Empress Catherine II soon after the death of the French philosopher in 1778. An official bargain was concluded with Voltaire’s heiress, Mme Denis. Following the final legal contract, Voltaire’s heiress was “offering” the library of her famous uncle as a “gift” to the Russian Empress. In response, Catherine gave her a “gift” consisting of a check for 30,000 rubles, presents, as well as diamonds and furs.

Voltaire’s books made a part of the Empress’s library in the Winter Palace. Not only was Voltaire’s Library actively used by Catherine herself, but it had become a peculiar sight of St. Petersburg, a must-see attraction for foreign travelers and diplomats. During the reign of Nicholas I, who considered Voltaire first and foremost to be a freethinker, Voltaire’s Library was closed for visitors. An exception was made just for Alexander Pushkin, who was granted a special permission of the Emperor to work with Voltaire’s books and manuscripts.

In November 1861 following the highest order Voltaire’s Library (6800 volumes of books and manuscripts) was donated to the Imperial Public Library (today known as the National Library of Russia). A year later was launched a major work intended to introduce books into scientific discourse. The results of first studies of the French enlightener’s library became publications of most interesting marks made by Voltaire in his books.

The conference will also see “Voltaire!” photo exhibition.

The international conference has been organized by the National Library of Russia’s Center for the Age of Enlightenment Studies “Voltaire’s Library” jointly with the French Institute in St. Petersburg.