Connecticut’s Bookshelf

Books you know, stories you don’t.

Connecticut is the birthplace of comic books, copyright law, Noah Webster, and the recipe for pumpkin pie. It printed the first fugitive slave narrative, sold millions of dollars of books by subscription, and inspired children’s sections in libraries nationwide. From the 1700s to today, Connecticut has been compiling its bookshelf, one sermon, ledger, map, schoolbook, law, psalm, newspaper, and book at a time. Connecticut’s Bookshelf explores how these documents were made, shared, and received, and asks you to consider: What belongs on the shelf? And who gets to decide?

Marvel at the modern comic book, investigate the early roots of true crime, try your craftsmanship at bookbinding, and more!

View the virtual exhibition here.

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