The Main Library Gallery at the University of Iowa Libraries (UI Libraries) welcomes visitors to experience a stunning exhibition of rare movable books and paper objects this fall. Free and open to the public, Paper Engineering in Art, Science, and Education opened on Aug. 25 and will be on display through Dec. 19, 2025.
Paper has long held a crucial role in communicating information to artists, scientists, and students. Curated by University Conservator Giselle Simón, John Martin Rare Book Room Curator Damien Ihrig, and Associate Professor of History Elizabeth Yale, this interactive exhibition explores flap books, pop-ups, tunnel books, volvelles, and books that use paper to make sounds while delving into their historical and contemporary significance.
The exhibition includes examples of movable books and other paper objects that span many genres, cultures, and eras. Medical and anatomical flap books from the 16th to the 19th centuries provided an affordable way for physicians to gain hands-on knowledge about the body. Children’s books from the 18th century onwards used movable elements to instruct and entertain, acting as precursors to interactive media. Card games, fortunetelling books, and ornate greeting cards from across the centuries helped people of the past gather and communicate with friends and family. Recent artist’s books demonstrate how paper technologies can engage viewers in new and exciting ways.
Paper Engineering in Art, Science, and Education celebrates the creativity, design, and ingenuity of paper engineering by showcasing materials from UI Libraries Special Collections and Archives and the John Martin Rare Book Room at the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences. Touchable interactives inspired by objects from the exhibition and access to videos that show select books in motion add to this immersive adventure through unique collections.
Learn more about this exhibition, its related events, and visiting hours at lib.uiowa.edu/gallery.