One of the gems within the Corning Museum of Glass is the Juliette K. and Leonard S. Rakow Research Library. It is the world’s foremost library devoted to the art, history, science, and technology of glass. Founded in 1951, its collections include books, photographs, company records, trade catalogs, archival materials, and other research resources covering every aspect of glassmaking, including the history of Steuben. Whether you’re researching a particular piece, learning more about Frederick Carder, or simply exploring the broader world of art glass, the Rakow Library offers an unmatched wealth of information. Best of all, their knowledgeable staff members are very welcoming and always happy to help with your research.

At the upcoming Symposium, we are fortunate to have two Rakow experts share their knowledge with us. Hugh McHarg, Manager of the Rakow Research Library, will describe the revitalized oral history program at the library and the importance of capturing personal narratives that expand the histories of glass and glassmaking. Regan Brumagen, Manager for Reference and Access Services, will discuss the recent collaborative project with the Carder Steuben Glass Association to digitize, transcribe, and make available recorded conversations with Frederick Carder. Through this talk, we will gain a deeper understanding of how the Rakow Research Library drives the field of glass forward through oral histories—primary research materials that prioritize the agency of the narrators while creating ethical, authentic conversations.

Hugh McHarg joined the Museum in 2023 as the Director of the Rakow Research Library. Prior to that, McHarg held several positions with the University of Southern California Libraries. McHarg holds a Master of Fine Arts in Literary Arts from Brown University and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Miami University.

Regan Brumagen is the Manager of Research and Collections Strategy at the Rakow Research Library. She coordinates reference, instruction, and visitor services. Before joining the Museum staff in 2004, Brumagen worked as a reference librarian and instruction coordinator at several academic libraries. She has an M.A. in English and an M.L.S. in Library Science from the University of Kentucky.

THE PAUL VICKERS GARDNER GLASS CENTER AT ALFRED UNIVERSITY

The Paul Vickers Gardner Glass Center at Alfred University opened in April 2025, and was established to advance education in the art and science of glass. Through academic programs, workshops, lectures, and archival resources, the center serves artists, scientists, students, and glass enthusiasts alike.

For those who attended the Symposium in 2023, you will recall the extensive collection of Steuben glass objects and archival materials that comprise the Alfred University collection. Getting a glimpse into these rare pieces was a highlight of the visit. As part of this year’s Symposium program, we will share a special video from Alfred University introducing the Center and highlighting its mission, facilities, and educational opportunities in Alfred, New York. We look forward to continued collaboration and learning together with Alfred University and the Paul Vickers Gardner Glass Center.

SEEKING DONATIONS

We are collecting items for our annual fundraising auction that will be held during the Symposium Banquet in September.  All proceeds from the auction benefit the Carder Steuben Glass Association and help to support our mission.

You can help support the CSGA by donating or consigning Carder Steuben glass, post-Carder Steuben glass, glass from the same era, or glass with relevance to Corning.  Other items like books, New York state wine, event tickets, or Frederick Carder items also make great auction entries.  If you are interested in supporting our organization in this way, please send item descriptions to Karen Beeman at symposium@steubenglass.org. You can bring your donations to the Symposium or ship them in advance to: CSGA c/o S. Coots, 14681 Lakeshore Rd., Kent, NY 14477.

The Carder Steuben Glass Association is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and you will receive a tax receipt for your donation.  Thank you in advance for your support!