On the Chopping Block: Items Cut from Exhibition

Join the co-curator of for a behind the scenes peek at what did not make it into the Or Not to Be exhibition! Dig deeper into the rare materials and hidden treasures that were left behind — and discover why some items were cut, whether due to space, condition, or content.

A subject search of "death" in the Free Library's online catalog produces over 7,000 results with over one hundred results in the Rare Book Department alone. This program offers a unique opportunity to see and discuss these fascinating materials and learn the stories that didn’t make the final display. This is the event for you if you are interested in exhibition planning, collection care and conservation, or the hidden world of special collections!

Presented in conjunction with Or Not to Be: Representations of Death in Special Collections, on view through Saturday, February 28, 2026 on in the Rare Book Department at Parkway Central Library in the Dietrich Gallery. There will be time before and after the event to explore the exhibition. More information is available at freelibrary.org/death.
Please note that food, drinks, and pens are not welcome in the Rare Book Department. If you wish to take notes, please bring a pencil or digital device.

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Host or Publisher Free Library of Philadelphia, Print & Picture Collection