Bibliomania: Book Arts at the Providence Athenæum

February – March 2020* (*closed early due to the COVID-19 pandemic)

Bibliomania: Book Arts at the Providence Athenæum explores the library’s extensive and beautiful collections through the lens of frequently asked questions. Rarely seen treasures will be on view, ranging from illuminated medieval manuscripts to extraordinary contemporary bindings. Highlights include the Athenæum’s oldest, largest, smallest, and weirdest volumes, as well as works by Johann Gutenberg, William Morris, the Roycroft Press and the magnificent complete 25-volume set of the Description de l’Egypte. Visitors will get a glimpse of these remarkable books, while learning how the library acquires and cares for its collections.

The exhibition is dedicated to the memories of two extraordinary bibliophiles and friends of the library, Dan Siegel and Isabelle Pingree.

Explore the exhibit with curator Stephanie Ovoian! Watch her EX LIBRIS virtual program below.