This exhibit features items from a collection of Amelia E.Barr (1831-1919) books and other materials, originally collected and described by Richard Minsky and acquired by River Campus Libraries’ Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation in 2017.

Amelia Barr’s writing is rarely read today but at the beginning of the 20th century she was one of the most popular woman authors in America and certainly one of the most prolific. Barr is also a model for perseverance in the face of adversity. Her career speaks to the determination and drive of a single woman of a certain age (her success began in earnest in her 50s) to gain fame, wealth, and artistic success.

The origins of this collection centered around the exceptional book cover designs of this prolific author, which range from Eastlake post-Victorian style, to Arts and Crafts, Japonisme, Art Nouveau, and Poster style, but have evolved into a deeper understanding of this talented and complicated woman. The exhibit touches on Barr as a woman, as an author, and on her popularity, as well as the beautiful covers that grace her books.

• Rush Rhees Library: Closed December 22–23, 25, 29–30; January 1. See the full list of hours during the holidays.