JOHN J. FORD, JR. READING ROOM Público Deposited
The E-Sylum: Volume 7, Number 21, May 23, 2004, Article 7
JOHN J. FORD, JR. READING ROOM
Peter Koch writes: "I had the distinct pleasure of attending the
John J. Ford, Jr. Reading Room Dedication the evening of
May 13th at the American Numismatic Society's new home
at 140 William Street located in New York City's historically
rich Lower Manhattan.Everything about the balmy spring evening was a pleasure.
A generous spread of food and beverage was laid out for all
to enjoy-judging by the paltry remains, enjoy we did.Following welcoming and speaker remarks and a warm,
eloquent presentation by Ford family members everyone was
invited to ride to an upper-level floor. As elevator doors open
you're greeted by a wall-mounted bronze plaque denoting
the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Library. Large double doors open to
an impressive space. Entering this handsome room, which
essentially occupies the entire floor, the eye immediately
catches straight ahead high on a far facing wall, the exquisitely
executed dimensional serif letters in all caps on two lines:
"THE JOHN J. FORD, JR. READING ROOM."Everything's new. Oak tables down the wide center aisle are
flanked by tall fixed bookcases to the left and matching
"Spacesaver" bookcases that glide effortlessly on flush-mounted
floor rails to the right. The fit and finish, right down to the
architectural oak trim and molding is superb.I'm told this is the most finished floor in the building.
Renovations to other floors continue apace.You are some five/six floors above the street and sidewalk
din below. Within this environment, from the state-of-the-art
ceiling lighting to the carpeting, you are secure, comfortable
and inspired to research. John can be mightily proud.Visitors were well prepared to record the occasion. Caught
by the moment, cameras seemed to pop-out from everywhere.
ANS Board members and others demonstrated a saintly
patience. In particular the Ford family could not have been
more gracious in holding for "just one more" attractive group
portrait.This is a grand building--with huge potential! The world
famous Financial District of Lower Manhattan is a tireless,
energetic hub of activity on any given day. The volume of
pedestrian traffic is premium. New York City remains high
on the priority list for international travelers. Consider the
renewed initiatives to expose numismatics to a wider audience.
Fully operational, 140 William Street will be a valuable
world-class resource for members and visitors from
everywhere.ANS has positioned itself well for the future."
- 2004-05-23
- 7