President Emeritus Vernon Alden will unveil the three millionth addition to the Ohio University Libraries Oct. 3 during "Passport to Hidden Treasures," an event commemorating Alden Library's 40-year history from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The piece will be housed inside the library's fourth floor entrance.

"It's one of the most unusual items we've added to the collection," said Director of Development Doug Partusch. "People will be surprised by its scope and scale."

Alden and Ohio University President Roderick McDavis are among those scheduled to make remarks during the formal dedication at 7 p.m. At the ensuing passport event, attendees will be encouraged to visit each of six stations on a self-guided tour of Ohio University's most distinct library collections.

Highlights will include:

• Rare books, including a 13th century illuminated Bible seldom seen by the public
  
  
  
  



• The new Yao Ceremonial Artifacts Collection in the Frederick and Kazuko Harris Fine Arts Library
  
  
  
  



• The Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections, including the E.W. Scripps Collection, Cornelius Ryan Collection and the Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis Dance Collection
  
  
  
  



• Cultures from around the world in the Hwa-Wei Lee Center for International Collections
  
  
  
  



• Photography displays by Ohio University alumni

"It's really the first time we've opened the vaults to display a lot of the items that we have in the archives," Partusch said.

During the passport event, the library will be closed to the public, with the exception of the Learning Commons. Complimentary international hors d'oeuvres and wine service will be featured at each stop. Cuisine, music and entertainment will complement the themes of the exhibits.

Tickets for "Passport to Hidden Treasures" may be purchased for $75 dollars at www.ohioalumni.org/alden40. Availability is limited, and registrations are encouraged by Sept. 24. All proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Libraries' Scholarship Fund.