Declaration of Independence exhibit at library open on July 4

When: July 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (in addition to regular library hours)

Where: Lower floor of the Mary and David Harrison Institute for American History, Literature and Culture, and the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library

The library’s permanent exhibit, “Declaring Independence: Creating and Recreating America’s Document,” will be open to the public on July 4, with free admission and guided tours throughout the day. The exhibit highlights the collection given by University of Virginia alumnus Albert H. Small, and includes one of only 25 surviving copies of the Declaration printed on the night of July 4, 1776. The exhibit also includes printings of the Declaration through history, letters and documents from the 56 signers, and a 13-minute documentary film showing the story of the events that led to the founding of this country. Groups of ten or more should call ahead (982-4548) for reservations. The exhibit is located on the lower floor of the Mary and David Harrison Institute for American History, Literature and Culture, and the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library. The other exhibits in the building will also be open on July 4. The online guide to the “Declaring Independence” exhibit is located at www.lib.virginia.edu/small/exhibits/declaration/