The Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) is excited to present another entry in our Archives Neighbors blog series. SCRC has recently had the opportunity to visit with some of our neighbor archives in the Northern Virginia-D.C. Metro area. In this series we’re recapping these new connections with members of our local archival community, providing insights into the lessons we learned, and highlighting some of our favorite experiences from each of these visits.
Folger Shakespeare Library new visitor entrance interior (left) and familiar exterior showing the old entrance (right)
On March 14, we had the wonderful opportunity to visit the newly remodeled Folger Shakespeare Library and receive a personalized guided tour of their revamped exhibitions from the Eric Weinmann Librarian & Director of Collections and Exhibitions, Greg Prickman, who was also the Interim Director during the Folger’s four-year remodel and expansion. Our first stop was the expansive new Shakespeare Exhibition, the centerpiece of which is an interactive display of all of the library’s 82 copies of the First Folio.
The permanent, climate controlled, exhibit case for all 82 First Folio copies in the library’s collection. The shelves have lights that can be activated by visitors using the touchscreen to show differences and connections between the various editions.
“As both a Shakespeare fan and an archivist, learning about First Folio display was a true highlight of our visit. The interactive elements allow for a customizable experience and was a wonderful reminder of the importance of making exhibits accessible and engaging for a variety of visitors.”– Meghan, SCRC Processing Manager
SCRC staff, student workers, and friends in the center of the Shakespeare Exhibition in front of the First Folio display
Directly across from the First Folios, as seen in the photo above, is another highlight of the exhibit: a working printing press created for the Folger by Alan May. This fully functional reproduction was designed based on a description in a 1683 publication and is similar to the type of press used to publish the First Folio.
Greg Prickman providing information on the function and creation of the printing press
These two large pieces anchor the area and the rest of the new Shakespeare Exhibition contains numerous other views into Shakespeare’s time, legacy, and cultural impact, including other interactive stations for visitors of all ages and familiarity with Shakespeare.
Sample of some of SCRC’s favorite pieces in the Shakespeare Exhibition
“I was so impressed by the Folger Library! One thing I was particularly amazed by was the use of digital collection images as wallpaper/design all along the Shakespeare Exhibition Hall. I’d love to do something like that at Mason or truly just in my own house! I also loved all of the interactive elements of the space.” – Mieko, SCRC Research Services Librarian
A few more of SCRC’s favorite pieces in the Shakespeare Exhibition, including “rocket cat” (whose story we have reimagined)
“I’m so appreciative of the time from our host to personally take us around and show us the exhibits area in such detail. I loved seeing the wall of folios as well as the exhibit space with the curtains and colors. We learn so much talking to our colleagues around the area!” – Lynn, SCRC Director
Greg Prickman explains the illustrated map that visualizes and thematically groups the people and places of Shakespeare’s plays – including a very important pursuing bear
But the tour didn’t stop there! We also got to visit the rotating “Out of the Vault” exhibition area which highlights additional items in the Folger collection that offer a glimpse into the society and culture surrounding Shakespeare’s time and writing influences, as well as performance pieces from the Folger’s archive. During our visit we got to see the recently closed “How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition” exhibit, which included numerous documents and artifacts used and collected by Tudor courtiers and monarchs.
Highlight from the “Out of the Vault” exhibit, which includes a set of illuminated manuscripts gifted to Queen Elizabeth I and a long scroll signed by the Queen (detail on right) that records these manuscripts among the many gifts she received as part of a New Year’s Day Ceremony
We ended our tour upstairs, passing by the theatre (making plans to return for a live performance) and visiting the lively and open to the public Quill & Crumb café, located in the Folger’s historic Great Hall.
View down The Great Hall, with a cameo from our University Archivist (left), and one of the many wonderful details decorating the space (right)
“Visiting the newly renovated Folger Shakespeare Library was such an exciting experience! It is truly an example of how to make something old (Shakespeare) new, vibrant, and interactive. The innovation of creating a ‘third space’ where the public can hang out and work is ingenious. It was fantastic to see so many visitors enjoying the magic of Shakespeare and what the Folger has to offer!” – Amanda, SCRC Manuscripts & Archives Librarian
Everyone at SCRC extends another huge thank you to Greg Prickman and everyone at the Folger Shakespeare Library for a truly wonderful, welcoming, and informative visit! Stay tuned for more highlights from these exciting visits as we continue to strengthen our connections with our “Archives Neighbors”.
Follow SCRC on Social Media and look out for future posts on our Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky accounts. To search the collections held at Special Collections Research Center, go to our website and browse the finding aids by subject or title. You may also e-mail us at speccoll@gmu.edu or call 703-993-2220 if you would like to schedule an appointment, request materials, or if you have questions.
