Library History
2019
Thread Library receives its founding collection: eight threads donated by the artist India Johnson.
2020
Thread Library develops its collection with the help of donors. Each thread is cataloged as if it is a book. The collection, with its accompanying card catalog, is installed at Iowa City Public Library in Iowa City, IA.
2021
A traveling exhibit of Thread Library collection items is installed at a series of public libraries throughout Iowa. Thread Library continues to solicit donations and acquire new threads.
Thread Library instruction program begins:
- Thread Library staff members collaborate to develop a 45-minute talk about thread from prehistory to the space age, which contextualizes the collection.
- Thread Library invites the artist India Johnson to offer workshops about Collecting as a creative practice to the public.
2022
Thread Library launches a digitization initiative, which releases high-quality photographs and digital catalog records of its collection items.
In collaboration with LGBTQ Iowa Archives & Library, Thread Library begins to circulate materials in the Iowa City area. Patrons begin to borrow books, textile samples, and textile tools.