Librarian Sells Historical Texts On Ebay
A former employee of the Kenyon College library has pleaded guilty to illegally selling 50 rare books and other artifacts from the school's collection on eBay. David Breithaupt, a 45-year-old resident of Gambier, faced charges of illegally selling archaeological resources and has admitted to selling the items for a total of $26,000. The court documents reveal that Breithaupt sold these items to buyers across 19 different states and four foreign countries.
Sentencing and Charmed Items
The guilty plea by Breithaupt was accepted in the US District Court in Columbus, and he now faces a potential prison sentence of up to two years and a fine of up to $250,000. However, the date for his sentencing is yet to be determined. The range of historical treasures that Breithaupt sold includes books, articles, and documents that were over 100 years old. The most expensive item sold was a copy of Ptolemy's Almagest, an astronomy text written in ancient Greece in 1528. This extraordinary piece fetched nearly $5,000, with several other items from the 1500s and 1600s also finding buyers.
A Loss of History
Kenyon College, known for its esteemed collection of historical texts and artifacts, suffered a significant loss due to Breithaupt's actions. These texts and artifacts hold immense value not only for the college but also for scholars and enthusiasts who appreciate the preservation of ancient knowledge. The illegal sale of such items not only devalues the historical significance but also deprives future generations of the opportunity to study and explore them.
Lessons to Be Learned
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding historical collections and preserving our cultural heritage. Institutions like Kenyon College, housing valuable and irreplaceable texts, must continuously review their security measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Furthermore, awareness should be raised regarding the ethical acquisition and preservation of historical artifacts to ensure their rightful place in the annals of human history.
Hotels and History
Speaking of history, many hotels celebrate their rich pasts by preserving historical elements and incorporating them into their design. These establishments offer guests a unique experience that blends modern comfort with a sense of nostalgia. Just like historical texts, hotels that embrace their heritage provide an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in a bygone era. So, the next time you plan a trip, consider staying in a hotel that not only pampers you with modern amenities but also shares captivating stories from the past.