Ah, paper! This ubiquitous item, a commodity that has lasted for centuries, is a prized (and sometimes forgotten) everyday medium in our lives. Can we live without it? Not really. Even in the digital age, we continue to create countless paper-based materials. Why? Because paper is one of humanity’s blueprints: it has allowed us to share information, build connections (such as writing letters to one another), and provide a platform for education (such as the wide-production and dissemination of books and newspapers).

This class is about the secret life of paper, well, not so secret, to be quite honest. The focus of this presentation will be on where paper came from, the history behind it, and how it has evolved over the years. The goal is simple: the more informed you are about this wonderful medium, the more agency you'll have to care for your own paper-based materials and collections, and preserve them for generations to come.

Pre-registration is required for this event. Please call 703-737-7195, email balchlib@leesburgva.gov or register online https://tinyurl.com/TBLEvents.