The Library of Virginia, one of the oldest state libraries and archives in the nation, marks its bicentennial in 2023 with a free exhibition — 200 Years, 200 Stories.
On view Jan. 24–Oct. 28, 2023 in our Gallery.
The exhibition and multimedia experience celebrate 200 Virginians whose fascinating narratives are housed in the Library’s collections and together reflect the stories of Virginia.
The exhibition is one of several key events and initiatives celebrating the Library’s bicentennial in 2023. Find more information about our 200th anniversary events on our website at lva.virginia.gov/200 and on the Library’s calendar.
Teachers and groups interested in scheduling a tour, please use the form on the Library’s Contact Us page and select Tours of the Library.
Explore our timeline of the Library of Virginia’s 200 years of service to the Commonwealth.
200th Anniversary Lecture | The Origins of the Library of Virginia’s Book Collections
The Library of Virginia was founded by the General Assembly on Jan. 24, 1823, to organize, care for and manage the state’s growing collection of books and official records, many of which date back to the early colonial period. Historian and author Brent Tarter discusses the origins of the Library’s book collections.
Tarter is a retired historian and editor at the Library of Virginia, a founding editor of the Library’s Dictionary of Virginia Biography project, the author of numerous journal articles on Virginia history, and the author, co-author, editor or co-editor of 16 books, including, most recently, Virginians and Their Histories.
“200 Years, 200 Stories”
Exhibition Introduction
The Library of Virginia, one of the oldest state libraries and archives in the nation, marks its bicentennial in 2023 with a free exhibition — “200 Years, 200 Stories.” On view Jan. 24–Oct. 28, 2023 in our Gallery at 800 East Broad, Richmond, VA.
The exhibition and multimedia experience celebrate 200 Virginians whose fascinating narratives are housed in the Library’s collections and together reflect the stories of Virginia.
Thank you to Riggs Ward Design studio for their vision and design with the exhibition and this introductory video.