21-22 June 2017, Wolfson Conference Suite, IHR

Great Britain and the Low Countries share a large part of their histories. There are countless stories of political and economic rivalries and wars, stories of religious and political exile in both directions, but also of cultural exchange and influence. Also the book business of the early modern era was characterised by an influx of printers, materials and books from the Low Countries to England. Rare books and manuscripts were eagerly collected by English bibliophiles and most of these collections are nowadays found in libraries all over the country.

This two-day symposium has a double goal. In a combination of papers and collection visits, it wants to bring these often overlooked collections to the surface, and it also offers an overview of the latest research on Low Countries books.

Speakers include: 

  • Arthur der Weduwen (University of St. Andrews)
  • Erik Geleijns (Museum Meermanno)
  • Jaap Geraerts(University College London)
  • Goran Proot (University of Udine)
  • Reinier Salverda (UCL and Fryske Akademy)
  • Marja Smolenaars(Koninklijke Bibliotheek)
  • Patrick Storme (Universiteit Antwerpen)
  • Steven Van Impe (Erfgoedbibliotheek Hendrik Conscience)
  • Catherine Wright (University of Oxford)
  • Heleen Wyffels (KU Leuven)

Delegates will also visit the following locations as part of the conference:

  • Lambeth Palace Library
  • British Library
  • Dutch Church
  • Senate House Library

For the preliminary conference programme, please click here

Fees apply ( includes all refreshments and lunches on both days)

  • Full fee: £60
  • Concession Rate: (Student/retired/ IHR Friend)​: £40
Conference organised by:  Stijn van Rossem (Institute of Historical Research)
With support from the Government of Flanders and Scaliger Institute