For week 19 of our Kansas sesquicentennial series we’re taking a closer look at our WPA Art Collection.
It’s been 76 years since the Works Progress Administration was established by Congress on May 6, 1935. This New Deal agency created by order of President Roosevelt provided jobs and income to almost 8 million unemployed people during the Great Depression (1929-1939). WPA projects included not only building roads, bridges and buildings but also large arts, drama, media and literacy initiatives.
About 52 for 150
Every object has a story, and stories build history. To celebrate 150 years of Kansas statehood we’re featuring 52 objects (or collections of related objects)—something new each week throughout the year—from the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library’s 130-year-old special, and permanent collections, that represent our collective state history and cultural diversity.
Our collections are available for teachers, students, researchers and general interest, and we hope this online video program will provide insight into what’s so “special” about Special Collections. Your library’s commitment to collecting art and preserving local history makes it possible for users today and in the future to have immediate access to invaluable research material and cultural artifacts.
To make an appointment to see our WPA art collection, or get help finding books and videos related to this topic, call or stop by the Sabatini Gallery (785-580-4515). We’re located on your right just beyond the Library rotunda entrance.