Reflections

The culmination of a three-year project, Beyond Glass Cases: Reflections took a look back to more fully explore our partners’ creative processes in telling their stories about the Library Company of Philadelphia’s holdings and practices. Each past Beyond Glass Cases project was represented in the gallery through videos and photographs. Reflections also directly solicited input from our visitors about the broader questions raised by Beyond Glass Cases, including the most fundamental one: What role should libraries and museums take in addressing social justice issues?

Click below to hear the replies we received. Audio production and consultation by Rowhome Productions.

Beyond Glass Cases: Reflections was on view from Tuesday, March 18-Thursday, July 3, 2025.

Survey Responses

QUESTION 1:

What is gained and what is challenging about the Library Company or other libraries and museums undertaking projects that openly critique American history or even the institutions themselves?

QUESTION 2:

Should libraries and museums strive to strike a balance in displaying collections that tell both positive and critical stories about history? Should controversial or offensive items ever be placed on public display, or should they be brought out only by specific request?

QUESTION 3:

Do you think that the Library Company or other libraries and museums should engage in conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion?  Has your opinion on this changed in the last few years?

QUESTION 4:

Should building community be an important aspect of the Library Company’s mission? For example, should we continue to collaborate with partners such as artists, musicians, and community activists? What are the advantages and disadvantages of creating these partnerships?

QUESTION 5:

If you participated in a Beyond Glass Cases program, such as a workshop, listening session, or public event, did you feel your experience was worthwhile or that your participation was respected and acknowledged? If not, what would have made the experience better for you?

QUESTION 6:

This hotline is one way to gather public opinion about the Beyond Glass Cases project specifically and Library Company exhibition practices in general. What other ways can we solicit feedback?

QUESTION 7:

Do you have any additional comments you would like to share?