Rare books and artwork from the former Wells College could end up in private hands, but state officials are pushing back, according to The Citizen.
The New York State Education Department and Board of Regents objected to the college’s plan to auction items like rare books and artwork to cover closing costs. State law says historically significant materials should be transferred to libraries, museums, or schools whenever possible.
Wells College asked Cayuga County Court for permission to sell the collection through auction houses, including Christie’s. Items include a rare Moby-Dick, Isaac Newton’s Opticks, and artwork by Charles Burchfield, Picasso and Rembrandt.
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