Shining a Spotlight on Collections
“The Declaration’s Promise,” opening in July in the David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery, will guide visitors through the ideological roots, drafting process and enduring impact of the Declaration of Independence, exploring the document’s origins and the impact of its principles on American life over the last 250 years. Drawing on the Library’s unparalleled collections, the installation will combine rare manuscripts and artifacts with immersive digital kiosks, interactive displays and related public programming.
The Boeing Company has had a philanthropic partnership with the Library since 2023 with their initial support of the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. A Boeing executive also advocates for the Library through membership on the Madison Council. As a key participant in America 250, Boeing is an ideal partner for this exhibition, continuing its strong support of the nation’s library. Corporate support is vital to the Library’s efforts to share its unparalleled resources with people everywhere — completely free of charge.
The Madison Council, launched in 1990, is a group of civic-minded philanthropists dedicated to advancing the Library’s mission. The council has been at the forefront of a myriad of educational outreach initiatives, including many state-of-the-art exhibitions that have engaged millions of Library visitors. Council Chairman David Rubenstein donated the funds needed to launch the Library’s first permanent treasures gallery in 2024. In this gallery, visitors can explore rare gems from the Library’s vast and varied collections. “The Declaration’s Promise” will comprise the second rotation of Library treasures presented in the gallery.
It takes many hands to preserve the Library collections, and it takes even more to bring them to the American people. The Library is grateful to its philanthropic partners for their belief in its mission and for bringing this inspiring exhibition to life for all to enjoy.