Inspiration for the Exhibit

We were inspired to create this exhibit because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is easier to make sense of our present if we better understand our past. This exhibit contextualizes humanity's responses to sickness, with the hopes of comforting our visitors. Visualizing that this time is not a complete anomaly eases anxieities, despite the ongoing sickness and death caused by COVID-19. 

In addition, we ask that we do better as a people. As noted in the exhibit, otherness is a common occurence with mass pandemic and death. This hate and scapegoating is still happening in 2021. 

For questions about the exhibit, please contact the Manager of Special Collections Candace Reilly at creilly1@drew.edu

The Special Collections and University Archives Department of the University Libraries is committed to supporting and advancing the educational mission of Drew University. Comprised of a number of distinctive collections, our mission is to acquire, preserve, provide access to and promote the use of primary and special secondary resources in all formats. Special Collections and University Archives are open to anyone who wishes to use them, including all members of the Drew community. Materials are available in the United Methodist Archives and History Center which is located across from the main library.