Some Matchless Objects of Our Affection

We dismiss many objects from everyday life because they are commonplace and readily available. Think paper napkins, postcard notices for upcoming events, business cards, political buttons and pins, T-shirts with slogans, matchbooks, and even pencils engraved with business names. These items (called "realia" in library lingo) most often find their way to trash cans or recycling bins.

But on some occasions, they make their way to the archives where they serve as a fun piece of history. The exhibition Queer and Quirky: OBJECTifying Ourselves highlights objects from the  James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center's archives. This portion of the Hormel Center's 20th anniversary exhibition is on display at the Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library. Other portions of the Queerest. Library. Ever. exhibition are on display at the Main Library.