Without obsessed collectors gathering their favorites over the years, much of our cultural heritage would be lost. Often it’s the small details of a child’s worn book, a treasured cookbook, or a guide to the World’s Fair that contemporary scholars use to understand the full picture of history. Magnificent Obsessions: Why We Collect, currently on view in the National Museum of American History, tells the captivating stories of the book collectors whose diverse interests and passions helped shape—and continue to contribute to—the libraries of the Smithsonian. Through rare books, manuscripts, and other intriguing items from across the varied libraries, the exhibition highlights the personal motivations and enduring impact of book collectors who were compelled to share their “magnificent obsessions” with the nation. Join curators Mary Augusta Thomas and Stephen Van Dyk as they share the stories of some of these fascinating collectors and incredible objects, as well as behind-the-scenes insights into the process of developing Magnificent Obsessions. How to Join
You can watch this event on Facebook (no account needed). To access the event, please be sure you are following Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. We recommend having our page open when it starts. This program will be recorded and made available following the event. You will find it on our YouTube channel. Registration
Registration is optional--you do not need to register to participate. However, by registering you help us learn about who is attending our programs, so we can better serve our audiences. You'll also get an opportunity to opt-in to our e-newsletter and be notified of future programs. In Memory of Anthony John Mourek, a Magnificent Collector |