Marantz Picturebook Collection for the Study of Picturebook Art
The Marantz Picturebook Collection for the Study of Picturebook Art in the Reinberger Children's Library Center was dedicated in December 2008. A gift from Ken and Sylvia Marantz, the collection represents their lifelong commitment to the study of picturebook art and its significance in children's literature.
The collection, cataloged by illustrator, includes more than 25,000 picture books from the past 40 years, as well as posters, original artwork, and character toys, all of which are now artistically and functionally displayed in the new facility.
Thanks to a generous $249,000 grant from the Reinberger Foundation of Cleveland, the Marantz Picturebook Collection occupies 1,800 square feet of newly renovated space and features compact shelving, display areas for rare books and collections, distance learning classroom, storytime area, and private study locations.
Learn more about this unique collection:
WKSU story featuring David Macaulay and Ken and Sylvia Marantz: "Picking the best of children's books: Author and Kent State collectors say instincts may be best guide," Dec. 15, 2008.
Record Courier article: "Kent State Children's literature collection finds home Marantz collection to be housed in Reinberger Children's Library Center," Dec. 16, 2008.
Video honoring the Marantzes as "Stars of the School" for 2008
School Library Journal article: "Kent State Unveils Marantz Picture Book Collection," Jan. 7, 2009.
Ohio Magazine article: "A True Picture," May 2011.