The University of Texas Libraries welcomed Mexican Ambassador to the United States Roberto Lazzeri Montaño to its Nettie Lee Benson Latin American Collection on Aug 3. He was joined by his wife, Lauren Coughlin; Chief of Staff Carlos Botello; and Consul-General of Mexico Humberto Hernández Haddad, among others.
The ambassador, consul and their group visited the Benson Collection’s Rare Books and Manuscripts Reading Room to view some of the collection’s rarest Mexican gems, including the Lienzo de Tlaxcala, two pinturas from the Relaciones Geográficas, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz’s entry and blood signature in the Libro de Profesiones of the Convent of San Jerónimo, and materials representing the Chicano movement in Austin. Benson Director Melissa Guy, Head of User Services Adrian Johnson, Head of Collection Development Lauren Peña and Latin American Archivist Dylan Joy facilitated the showing.
“The Benson’s Mexican holdings are the cornerstone of our world-class collections. Each year, we welcome more researchers from Mexico than from any other country, resulting in invaluable intellectual and cultural exchange,” said Guy. “We were honored to show a selection of our unique materials to the ambassador, consul and other esteemed guests.”
The ambassador’s visit to the Benson was part of a larger event hosted by the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies to explore the University’s role in advancing U.S.–Mexico collaboration. The LLILAS event focused on the vital role of research, education and cultural exchange in addressing shared challenges; creating opportunities; and strengthening partnerships between the United States and Mexico, as well as the significance of Texas as the gateway between the two countries.