Notes for an imaginary library: patrimonial value and legal situation of the libraries of Bernardo Mendel and Nicolás Gómez Dávila

Abstract

This article delves into the history of the private libraries of Bernardo Mendel y Nicolás Gómez Dávila. In the first part, the author analyzes the role that the creation of private libraries and their later transfer to the state—whether by donation or acquisition—has played in the consolidation of the major Colombian public libraries. Next is the case of the library of Bernardo Mendel, its creation, the richness of its specialized holdings in Latin American history, and its later sale to the Lilly Library of Indiana University in the United States. Next to be analyzed is the case of the library of the Colombian philosopher Nicolás Gómez Dávila which, as opposed to the previous example, continues in Colombia and is maintained by his children in Bogotá. The historical value of this library is examined, along with the pressing need for the state and the nation to acquire it through joint initiatives, with the purpose of attaching it to one of the state supported bibliographic collections. Finally, this article proposes legal and social action necessary to preserve the bibliographical and cultural legacy that these private libraries represent for Colombia.