Frequently Asked Questions: Rare Books and Special Collections

Due to very heavy use and significant wear we have had to put a moratorium on serving Thomas Jefferson’s copy of the Koran.  The decision was based solely in the interest of protecting these valuable items for generations to come.  We understand that this will be disappointing for many as this is a very popular title in Rare Book Collection.  During our busiest times of the year these books are requested daily.  This was good for those who were able to make the trip to DC, and we in the Rare Book Division very much like to show valued material; unfortunately this is not a good situation for the preservation of the 250 year old books.

The Koran, commonly called the Alcoran of Mohammed / translated into English immediately from the original Arabic ; with explanatory notes, taken from the most approved commentators ; to which is prefixed, a preliminary discourse by George Sale 

London : Printed for L. Hawes, W. Clarke, and R. Collins ... and T. Wilcox ..., 1764.

Volume 1 page view                           

Volume 1 PDF                                   

Volume 2 page view                           

Volume 2 PDF                                     

Electronic copy from HathiTrust        

We hope that this is helpful; If not, please feel free to submit your question to begin a conversation with a Reference Librarian.