July 9, 1999 Fact Sheet: Library of Congress Bicentennial Celebration Exhibitions

The theme of "Libraries, Creativity, Liberty" will be reflected in the Library of Congress Bicentennial exhibitions. The first, "The Work of Charles and Ray Eames: A Legacy of Invention," opened in the Thomas Jefferson Building on May 20, 1999. The exhibit, reflecting American "creativity," surveys the work of this extraordinary example of a 20th century team and their influence on popular taste. The exhibition closes on Sept. 4, 1999, and will travel to other venues.

"John Bull and Uncle Sam: Four Centuries of British-American Relations" opens on Nov. 17, 1999. The exhibition, celebrating libraries, will feature treasures from the magnificent collections of the Library of Congress and the British Library in an exploration of selected time periods and cultural movements that will provide unique insights into the relationship of the United States and Great Britain.

"Thomas Jefferson: Genius of Liberty" is scheduled to open in April 2000. This exhibition, celebrating liberty, will trace the origins and evolution of Jefferson's thinking and examine the influence of his ideas and interests on American life. The display will include volumes surviving from Jefferson's 1815 library.