On March 26, Mr. Robert Pfeffer, the descendant of the renowned German plant physiologist W. Pfeffer (1845-1920) and five accompanying family members and friends, visited the Institute of Plant Science and Resources Branch Library, Okayama University. They perused the "Pfeffer Collection," which is the library holdings, comprising a total of 11,730 volumes. This collection was amassed in 1921 under the directive of OHARA Magosaburo, the founder of Ohara Agricultural Research Institute, the predecessor of the Institute of Plant Science and Resources. The collection is a significant repository of materials relating to plant physiology, notably featuring works by W. Pfeffer, a global authority in the field. Among the collection are manuscripts specially prepared by W. Pfeffer himself during the revision of his publications, including his manuscript "Pflanzenphysiologie," as well as materials bearing the handwritten dedications of the renowned natural scientist C. Darwin, famous for his work on evolution.

On the day of their visit, the group was warmly welcomed by relevant personnel, including HIRAYAMA Takashi, Director of the Institute of Plant Science and Resources, and TAKETA Shin, Chief Librarian of the Institute of Plant Science and Resources Branch Library. Subsequently, they were escorted to the branch library housing the "Pfeffer Collection," where they engaged in cordial exchanges throughout their visit.

Mr. Pfeffer and his family perused the volumes of the "Pfeffer Collection," displaying a profound appreciation for the handwritten annotations made by W. Pfeffer. They also showed keen interest in explanations provided by Chief Librarian Taketa and Director Hirayama regarding the institute's establishment, the acquisition process of W. Pfeffer's library, the current research activities, and the institute's role as a graduate school. Moreover, they expressed admiration for the efforts of the institute's staff in deciphering, typing, and translating handwritten editorial notes found in textbooks authored by W. Pfeffer, culminating in the publication and promotional activities of these works.