Documenting the Past

Analyzing manuscript and archival collections compels us to consider the ways we document our present. Will scholars one day study our emails, Tweets and YouTube video clips in an attempt to understand American culture and experiences?

“Documenting the Past”, curated by Lori Birrell, features manuscript and printed items acquired through donation, and recent purchases. The items in this exhibit offer viewers the opportunity to examine once common acts of daily life. In addition to viewing the physical items on exhibit, the viewer can also scan the QR (Quick Response) code located on each display case panel with their mobile device to learn more about these collections and their greater historical context.

The exhibit is open through September 21, 2012 and can be viewed in the Rare Books and Special Collections Department on the 2nd floor of Rush Rhees Library, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.