WEST PLAINS, Mo. – “The Permanence of Fine Printing in the Digital Age” will be the topic of the next Friends of the Garnett Library monthly luncheon meeting Friday, Jan. 9, on the Missouri State University-West Plains campus.

John Neal Hoover, executive director of the Mercantile Library Association for the St. Louis Mercantile Library, will present the program, which is related to the exhibit “The Art of the Printed Book Through the Centuries” that was on display at the Garnett Library earlier this year, organizers said.

Hoover is a member of the history faculty at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and teaches classes in early American topical reading and seminars, as well as museum and historical society methods of curatorship.  The St. Louis Mercantile Library remains the oldest library west of the Mississippi River in continuous existence.

In addition, Missouri State-West Plains Chancellor Drew Bennett will give a brief update on university activities.

The luncheon and meeting will take place from noon to 1 p.m. at the Garnett Library, 304 W. Trish Knight St. Parking is available in lots adjacent to the library on its west and south sides.

Cost of the meal is $10, payable at the door. Those wishing to eat are asked to make a reservation by calling 417-255-7940 or emailing FriendsofGarnettLibrary@MissouriState.edu by Tuesday, Jan. 6.

For more information about Friends of the Garnett Library, visit the organization’s website, wp.missouristate.edu/development/FriendsHomepage.htm or call 417-255-7940.