Memorial University Libraries received a donation of three maps from the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Canada during a dual ceremony recently.
The ceremony also honoured Memorial bachelor of arts student Ceara Keough.
Ambassador Oleg V. Stepanov presented the Russian Ambassador’s Book Prize for Excellence in Russian Language and Literature to Ms. Keough, who is pursuing a joint major in geography and French and only has one more semester to go before she completes her degree.
“I’ve always had a fascination with other languages and cultures, and winning a prize for something I’m passionate about is not really something I can put into words,” said Ms. Keough. “I’m absolutely honoured and touched to receive this prize from the Russian ambassador himself! It really was the experience of a lifetime.”
The collection of historic maps donated to the Libraries range from 1625 to 1917.
“These maps are remarkable in their scope and beauty and will provide our students, faculty and researchers access to Russian history and geography in the way that only cartography can,” said Dan Duda, map librarian in the Queen Elizabeth II Library.
“The Libraries would like to extend our deepest gratitude for these additions to our collection,” said Janet Bangma, interim dean of Libraries. “It is an honour to welcome Ambassador Oleg V. Stepanov to mark this special occasion.”
