The University Library, which is the official repository for the papers of distinguished American author Ishmael Reed, will display an exhibition in celebration of his upcoming 70th birthday.

Books, original manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials will be on display in the Special Collections Exhibition Gallery through Dec. 16. Reed will give remarks at an exhibition program and reception in the Library’sReserve Room, to begin at 4:30 p.m., Oct. 24.

In the 1960s, Reed was involved in a variety of literary and journalism projects in New York City, including co-founding the East Village Other, an underground newspaper that was the first alternative paper to be sold nationally.

Also an accomplished poet, short story writer and essayist, he has had more than 30 books published, has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and was twice nominated for the National Book Award.

For more information about Reed’s papers, call (302) 831-2229 or visit the Special Collections web site, [www.lib.udel.edu/ud/spec].