Lilly Library, rare book and manuscript library in the United States
The Lilly Library is a rare book library on Indiana University's Bloomington campus. It houses rare books, manuscripts, and special collections including a Gutenberg Bible, historic documents like Thomas Jefferson's copy of the Bill of Rights, and more than 34,000 mechanical puzzles.
The library opened in October 1960 to house rare and valuable collections. Its holdings include significant historical artifacts such as the first Bible printed in Europe using movable type and early American and Greek printed works.
The library displays rotating exhibitions on different topics, connecting book culture and history with visitor experiences. The murals in the Reading Room create a visual frame that reflects the importance of rare collecting and scholarship.
Guided tours run every Friday afternoon and last about one hour, with no reservations needed. The main galleries are open for drop-in visits, while the Reading Room and special collections require advance appointments and a photo ID.
The library holds two locks of hair from Edgar Allan Poe, one sent with a love letter in 1848 and another taken from his deathbed and preserved in a brooch. These intimate artifacts are a rare example of the personal items kept in its collection.
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