Beyond Glass Cases Focus Group

In 2025, cultural and historical organizations in America are facing unprecedented public and governmental scrutiny. From what institutions collect to how that material is displayed and interpreted, organizations are wrestling with how best to tell the complex stories that make up our history. In 2022, the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage awarded a three-year grant to the Library Company of Philadelphia for the Beyond Glass Cases project that facilitated collaborations with community partners who brought fresh perspectives to our curatorial practices through the creation of new art work, an exhibition gallery installation, and the premiere of a musical composition. Beyond Glass Cases raised provocative questions such as: Whose stories do we tell in our exhibitions and from whose perspective are they told? Should libraries and museums collect and display difficult items and if they do, how do they address the possible harm these items might cause?

As Beyond Glass Cases draws to a close, we are reflecting on what we have learned, why it matters at this particular point in time, and how these lessons can inform the future path of institutions like the Library Company.

Please join us on Saturday, June 14, 2:00-3:30 for a discussion of these important issues moderated by Eric Marsh, Sr., a Community Engagement specialist and non-profit leader in Philadelphia. You will have the opportunity to view the final Beyond Glass Cases exhibition, Reflections, to listen to some of the feedback we have already received through our telephone hotline, and to share your opinions. Light refreshments will be served.

If you are not able to attend this in-person event, please consider calling our anonymous hotline at (267) 715-1584 and responding to the pre-recorded questions. Audio production and consultation for hotline by Rowhome Productions.