‘The Way We Worked’ has Something for Everyone

Everyone remembers their first job.

That’s the appeal of a new traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution and the National Archives – “The Way We Worked” – at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, December 16 through January 28.

The exhibit, to be installed in the main library level, 702 E. Front Avenue, examines American attitudes toward work and its ever-changing nature, featuring interactive displays and historic photographs. Companion local exhibits will also be featured.

The library’s community partner for the project is the Museum of North Idaho, which will share some of its artifacts for a display in the cases on the lower level of the library to illustrate the industries that provided employment in North Idaho over the years.

The library’s Parkside Gallery will feature art from school children illustrating the theme, “My Family Works.” Middle and high school students are invited to create videos based on the theme, “This is Working” to be screened at an event in the Community Room at 7:00 p.m. on January 20.

Other events related to the exhibit include:

•December 16, 12-5:00 p.m.: Sneak peek at the traveling exhibit as part of the Library’s Open House.

•December 17, 7:00 p.m.: Gary Eller Folk Music Concert. Part of the Idaho Humanities Speakers Bureau, Eller will perform work-related regional songs.

•December 22, 6:00 p.m.: Community Reception and Lecture. The official grand opening for the exhibit featuring music, refreshments, and a presentation by Idaho State Historian Keith Petersen.

•January 4, 11, and 25, 7:00 p.m.: Lectures by regional historian Robert Singletary based on the images from the library’s Heritage Wall.

“The Way We Worked” is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils nationwide. Support for Museum on Main Street has been provided by the United States Congress. The exhibit has been made possible in Idaho by the Idaho Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities “We the People” Program, and the Inland Northwest Foundation.

Patrons who need accommodation to participate in library programs or services are asked to contact the staff prior to the activity by calling 208-769-2315. For more library information visit cdalibrary.org or cdacity.blogspot.com.