ICS strengthens intercontinental links with Classics department in Nigeria

With the generous support of the A. G. Leventis Foundation, the Institute of Classical Studies (ICS) will transfer deaccessioned duplicate volumes from its libraries to the Department of Classics at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. 

These books will expand the University of Ibadan's library and give Classics students and staff access to sources on Hellenic literature and culture that they may otherwise not have had the opportunity to consult. 

The transfer of these texts will build important relationships between the two institutions, encouraging dialogue between Classics scholars in both countries. These new connections will support diverse and fresh perspectives on Cypriot and Greek antiquity and underline Hellenic studies’ continued global relevance. 

Established in 1948, the Department of Classics at the University of Ibadan is the only Classics department in Nigeria and exists as the preeminent research hub for Classics within West Africa. One of the oldest departments at the University of Ibadan, the Department of Classics was also one of the earliest to secure recognition for Honours Degree Courses under the ‘Special Relationship’ scheme with the University of London.

The Institute of Classical Studies is home to one of the world’s leading research libraries, developed collaboratively with the Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies and the Society for the Promotion of Roman Studies. The deaccession and transfer of its duplicate volumes will increase much-needed library capacity, enabling the Combined Classics Library to continue to strategically expand its collections in response to researchers’ needs and current gaps in provision.

Joanna Ashe, Librarian of the Combined Classics Library, said “We are delighted to build on the historic links between the University of Ibadan and the University of London, and create new opportunities for collaboration and exchange between our departments.”

“This innovative initiative will strengthen the educational offerings of both the ICS and the University of Ibadan, through the respective increase of library capacity and collections, while supporting the study of Cypriot and Greek antiquities in Nigeria and the UK.” 

Professor Olakunbi Olasope, Professor of Classics at the University of Ibadan, said: “I am delighted about the transfer of some highly useful books from the ICS to the Classics Department, University of Ibadan, as this marks a significant step in enriching our academic resources and fostering a greater collaboration between our institutions. 

“This invaluable addition to our library will greatly enhance our research by providing resources for our students and faculty. It is heartening to see such generosity, and I am confident this will generate new ideas, collaborations and discoveries within our respective academic communities.  We truly appreciate this laudable contribution.”