This is the sixth in a series of guest posts (which was sent to me yesterday) by Abigail Van Gelder, who with her husband, Josh, is journeying across the country on the Library’s “Gateway to Knowledge” traveling exhibition:
One of the things we like to remember about the Library of Congress Jefferson building is that after it first opened it became a cultural center in Washington. A place to exchange ideas, catch up on news and meet friends.
In the two years we have been out on the road visiting communities, a few special libraries stand out for how much they serve the community. The Twinsburg Public Library and its staff are hitting the mark and making their facility a hub for community activity. During our visit there not only was there a book fair but also a blood drive–guess there’s no better time to crack open a new book. It was impressive how busy they were throughout the day.
This special community has more than just a library to be proud of: Belinda Scott from Chamberlain Middle School was just named Ohio’s Middle School Principal of the year. She brought over some 8th graders to join in the ribbon cutting by her, Congressmen Steve LaTourette, Twinsburg Mayor Katherine Procop and Library Director Laura Leonard. The students had some time after to explore the exhibit and chatted with us about the Library of Congress.
The High School is also just next door, and a number of classes found time to stop in, many later brought their families back to experience the exhibit.
With all the good weather around, it’s time to enjoy the roads lined with fall colors.
Comments (2)
I had the opportunity to visit the Gateway to Knowledge exhibit in Oberlin, OH on October 11, 2010.
The exhibit is fascinating. I never knew that the Library of Congress houses the largest collection of American comic books, for example.
By the way, the docents Abigail and Josh Van Gelder are simply wonderful. They are engaging, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable.
I’ve been to Washington, D.C. more times than I can remember, but sorry to save I’ve never been to the LOC. I’ll be changing that status upon my next visit!
I had never had the opportunity to visit the Gateway to Knowledge exhibit in Oberlin, OH .
The exhibit looks great. I never knew that the Library of Congress houses the largest collection of American comic books.