When Iowa City was named a City of Literature in 2008, it joined Edinburgh and Melbourne to become the third city worldwide to receive this designation (Dublin, Ireland was named fourth city in July 2010)–a recognition of a century and a half of activity in a small university city that has played a role in the world of literature far out of proportion with its size. Iowa City has long been host to a lively literary scene that has extended beyond the university’s campus to inform the spirit of the community.

An exhibit in The University Main Library, “City of Literature: Literary Life in Iowa City” highlights diverse aspects of literary life both at the University of Iowa and throughout Iowa City.

Literary artifacts such as Dr. Alphabet’s suit and top hat, the application to UNESCO City of Literature and images of the Iowa City Literary Walk poems are part of the exhibit. As well as works by a few of the myriad writers who have called Iowa City home.

The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular library hours.