On the interdisciplinary library studies (review of the book: Markova T. B. “The library and the book as the forms of memory transmission”)

Abstract

The interdisciplinary approach to studying the book and library as the forms of memory transmission is discussed. The purpose of the study was to substantiate the concept of the library “as the form to memorize knowledge and preserve cultural memory”. The originality of the study lies in the defining traditional library functions: they not only preserve information and deliver it to users but also orient them in the world of books, and facilitate their creativity. The monograph in structured in four chapters. Chapter 1 “The methodological foundations of the memory phenomenon studies” examines the concepts of the book and reading in the memory structure. Chapter 2 “Conceptualization of the memory in philosophy and cultural studies” comprises the analysis of memory concepts related to the memory institutions: libraries, museums, and archives. In the Chapter 3, “The memory organizational forms”, the evolution and institutionalization of collective memory forms are discussed. Chapter 4 “The library and cultural memory” focuses on the book and library as memory transmission forms. The libraries’ humanistic mission is substantiated; they do not only preserve cultural and historic heritage but are also naturally and creatively apply new technological possibilities. The interdisciplinary approach chosen by the author enables to demonstrate the prospects for the libraries, books and academic community in upgrading cultural environment.