The Sixteen Pleasures

Join us for the preservation-themed April virtual book club as we discuss The Sixteen Pleasures: A Novel by Robert Hellenga.

The Sixteen Pleasures takes us to Florence in the aftermath of a flood that has devastated the city’s cultural heritage collections. We follow an American book conservator, Margot Harrington, in her volunteer efforts to help Florence save what treasures it can. During her disaster recovery efforts in a water-logged convent, she uncovers the last copy of 15th century erotica, thought to have been destroyed by the Vatican centuries ago. Convinced by the abbess to save the order’s finances by selling the priceless volume discreetly, Margot finds herself in the heady world of secretive deals and passionate affairs.

A presentation by Danielle Creech, head of preservation, digitization & exhibitions, on real-life disaster recovery efforts around the globe will precede the discussion.

Free and open to all, registration required.

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