July 9, 2012 – “The cage” is a section of UCLA’s Arts Library in the Public Affairs Building where many of the unique and valuable collections of books are held.
Located in what is nicknamed the “submarine library” because of its low ceilings and battleship-esque staircases, it’s where books are held under extra protection because of the risk of theft and damage.
Among the books kept in the cage is a selection of so-called “artist books” which are intended to convey an artistic message or be visually appealing in a way that sometimes has nothing to do with reading.
Robert Gore, a UCLA visual arts librarian, gave Daily Bruin Radio a tour of the cage and highlighted some of his favorite books.
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Read more about the UCLA Library Conservation Center here and here.
This story is part of the Daily Bruin’s Orientation issue.