I Followed My Curiosity—And Look Where It Took Me

This post was written by Jessica Fries-Gaither, a 2024-2025 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow at the Library of Congress.

“Follow your curiosity.”

That’s the advice that Tara Roberts, National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, recently gave to a young journalist in response to a question about finding powerful stories. I was in the audience and her words, though simple, resonated deeply. I had been struggling with how to frame this retrospective post—how could I possibly sum up this life-changing fellowship? Tara’s words provided clarity. I would share stories of the places my curiosity has taken me over the past eleven months.

I arrived at the Library curious about the stories and work of women in STEM fields, a helpful starting point amidst the dizzying array of possibilities. I started my journey with Maria Merian, a 17^th century naturalist and artist known for her depictions of the life cycles of insects and their host plants.

My research led me to visit the Rare Book room to view a first edition of Merian’s 1705 Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium. Before I knew it, I was collaborating with Cindy Connelly Ryan in the Preservation Testing and Research Department to analyze the pigments in Merian’s work and then recreate and use those paints. Painting in the Madison building’s sub-basement lab on a cold January day is a favorite memory, along with presenting our work at AwesomeCon dressed as a moth.

I also followed my curiosity to the Geography and Map reading room, where I marveled at Marie Tharp’s map of the ocean floor. Viewing the digitized version paled in comparison to the real thing—particularly in scale!

Following my curiosity led me to new names and stories. I discovered the beautiful lithography of Genevieve Jones, who (along with her family) published The Illustrations of Nests and Eggs of Birds of Ohio. I collaborated with Josh Levy of the Manuscripts division and learned about 19^th century forester and progressive force for good, Mira Lloyd Dock.

And I learned about Beulah Henry, a prolific inventor and Mary Vaux Walcott, who painted wildflowers.

My curiosity led to surprises as well. Prior to the fellowship, I researched the life and work of Jane Marcet, who wrote a chemistry textbook for women in the 1800s. I discovered that Thomas Jefferson’s library included a second edition of Conversations on Chemistry—and that it was one of his original books. Imagine the thrill I had examining that volume up close!

Finally, my curiosity has introduced me to new people, including incredible Library staff who generously shared resources and time to assist with my work. I’ve connected with preservice teachers at the University of the District of Columbia and Teaching with Primary Sources partners across the country. My network, as well as my knowledge, has expanded and for that I will be forever grateful.

This year has reminded me of the joy that comes from research and discovery. While my fellowship is ending, I’m taking the spirit of the Library with me. And despite the lesson plans and grading calling my name, I will carve out time and space to continue to follow my curiosity.