Foreign Languages and Literatures: Slavic

Purpose: To support undergraduate instruction and faculty research in Russian language and literature. Primary interest in this field is found in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, but relevant materials, especially in English translation, are also of interest to faculty and students in the departments of English, Literary Studies, History, Political Science, and Theater.

1. Languages: The primary languages of the collection are Russian and English. Important literary works are purchased in both Russian and in English translation, when available. Dual-language poetry and fiction are purchased when available. Translations of literary or critical works into languages other than English are not ordinarily acquired. Studies of the Slavic literatures in general are purchased mainly in English.
2. Chronological Guidelines: IIn general, materials describing and exemplifying the development of Slavic languages and literatures from their origins to the present day are collected. In the case of literature, particular emphasis is placed on 19th, 20th, and 21st century materials.
3. Geographical Guidelines: Emphasis is placed on material from Russia and the independent states of the former Soviet Union.
4. Treatment of Subject: Critical works and primary texts are collected. Works on Russian culture and film are also acquired. Biographies and bibliographies of major and most minor authors are purchased, as are critical editions and collected works. Textbooks are not generally acquired.
5. Types of Materials: Monographs, journals, reference works. Textbooks are not ordinarily acquired. Electronic and selected audiovisual materials (e.g., language learning media) are acquired.
6. Date of Publication: Emphasis is on current publications. Important older materials are acquired in reprint or in microform as funds permit.