Olin’s Declaration

An exhibition experience for a leading library collection at Washington University in St. Louis, with a rare print of the Declaration of Independence as its centerpiece.

The Olin Library transformation and expansion included new spaces and resources for learning, research, and teaching. Working with Ann Beha Architects, C&G Partners was responsible for the exhibit and experiential design — along with the signage — for the library expansion.

The Thomas Gallery features a 60-foot long archival case that features University alumni and affiliates including author Tennessee Williams.

One of the flagship features is an exhibit of a rare broadside copy of the Declaration of Independence, dated July 12, 1776. A chamber was created to the highest level of archival and security standards to house the valuable manuscript. Inside the low-light chamber, the Broadside commands center stage while a flanking interactive monitor offers an in-depth interpretation of the manuscript, and a nearby case foregrounds other Olin Library manuscripts.

The core of the Library is a four-story tower that rises from the special collections basement vault to a skylit conference room.