Using our public resources is something fun and different to do.
Which brings us back to last week's creative tip of getting out. Going
to a museum, visiting a gallery or local library exposes you to a
wealth of information that you can't get sitting in front of your
computer. There's nothing like being face to face with a piece of art
made centuries ago or holding a beautiful book weathered by time. Being
there is part of the whole experience.
What's cool about these institutions is that there is an entire world you have access to if you just seek that information. Like the Philadelphia Central Library has an amazing print and picture department. In it's heyday Philadelphia was a huge printing hub for all kinds of ephemera so you can imagine the various printed material waiting to be discovered in this department. What's even more fabulous is that you can check most of it out. This section is a staple when doing research for my own projects.
If you live in or close to a major city it's more than likely your
central library has this particular department. Take the time to browse around and ask the librarian the procedure for using this part of the library.
Another great thing about these institutions are the free programs. They offer unique group gatherings, workshops, and lectures related to self-development, arts and crafts, and career-building. These activities are provided so that you are using the space to not only research and learn but to also socialize and have fun.
For those who can do without the experience of being there, there's
something for you too. Support these public resources via the internet.
Museums have great online libraries where you can research as
well as download videos, art, and photography. I love the V&A Museum's online resources and I am always pleasantly overwhelmed with what the Smithsonian has to offer online. (See this post where I featured some beautiful Ikat Robes from the V&A.)
