The public is invited to a lecture by Dr. Stuart Swiny, "History Matters: Investigations in Cyprus and the Middle East" at the Mattapoisett Free Public Library on Sunday, May 6, at 2 p.m.

The program is offered as part of The Purrington Lecture Series by the Mattapoisett Library Trust.

Swiny will discuss the "before and after" beauty and condition of treasures in war-torn lands, the destruction of which results in the loss of ethnic identities for people in the affected areas.

With photographs, Swiny will also offer a description of the varied but little-known ancient cultures in Cyprus.

Swiny, professor Emeritus from the University at Albany, New York, is currently the Director of the Sotira Archeaological Project. He has lectured widely in the United State and abroad, and has spent many years on site in Cyprus and in the Middle East.

A reception will follow the lecture. Reserving a spot for the lecture is recommended. To register, call 508-758-4171. The library is located at 7 Barstow Street and is handicapped accessible. Additional parking is available at Shipyard Park, one block from the library at the wharf.