The E-Sylum:  Volume 7, Number 21, May 23, 2004, Article 7

JOHN J. FORD, JR. READING ROOM

  Peter Koch writes: "I had the distinct pleasure of attending the
  John J. Ford, Jr. Reading Room Dedication the evening of
  May 13th at the American Numismatic Society's new home
  at 140 William Street located in New York City's historically
  rich Lower Manhattan.

  Everything about the balmy spring evening was a pleasure.

  A generous spread of food and beverage was laid out for all
  to enjoy-judging by the paltry remains, enjoy we did.

  Following welcoming and speaker remarks and a warm,
  eloquent presentation by Ford family members everyone was
  invited to ride to an upper-level floor. As elevator doors open
  you're greeted by a wall-mounted bronze plaque denoting
  the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Library. Large double doors open to
  an impressive space. Entering this handsome room, which
  essentially occupies the entire floor, the eye immediately
  catches straight ahead high on a far facing wall, the exquisitely
  executed dimensional serif letters in all caps on two lines:
  "THE JOHN J. FORD, JR. READING ROOM."

  Everything's new. Oak tables down the wide center aisle are
  flanked by tall fixed bookcases to the left and matching
  "Spacesaver" bookcases that glide effortlessly on flush-mounted
  floor rails to the right. The fit and finish, right down to the
  architectural oak trim and molding is superb.

  I'm told this is the most finished floor in the building.
  Renovations to other floors continue apace.

  You are some five/six floors above the street and sidewalk
  din below. Within this environment, from the state-of-the-art
  ceiling lighting to the carpeting, you are secure, comfortable
  and inspired to research. John can be mightily proud.

  Visitors were well prepared to record the occasion. Caught
  by the moment, cameras seemed to pop-out from everywhere.
  ANS Board members and others demonstrated a saintly
  patience. In particular the Ford family could not have been
  more gracious in holding for "just one more" attractive group
  portrait.

  This is a grand building--with huge potential! The world
  famous Financial District of Lower Manhattan is a tireless,
  energetic hub of activity on any given day. The volume of
  pedestrian traffic is premium. New York City remains high
  on the priority list for international travelers. Consider the
  renewed initiatives to expose numismatics to a wider audience.
  Fully operational, 140 William Street will be a valuable
  world-class resource for members and visitors from
  everywhere.

  ANS has positioned itself well for the future."

  Wayne Homren, Editor

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