Much Ado About First Folios — the world's largest Shakespeare collection reopens

The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., has undergone a four-year transformation, unveiling new museum spaces and leadership. The library, home to the world's largest Shakespeare collection, will showcase 82 copies of Shakespeare's "First Folio" together for the first time. The reopening includes a performance of "Metamorphoses" with an all-Black cast, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of D.C. The library's director of collections highlighted the uniqueness of each First Folio copy, emphasizing their historical significance despite variations over 400 years. Additionally, the library houses rare manuscripts and objects in its vault, including items associated with Shakespearean legends. The renovation aims to broaden the library's audience and establish it as a cultural destination. The presence of Shakespeare's original works near significant government institutions underscores the importance of humanities and arts in a democratic society, according to library officials. The initiative aligns with the library's mission to preserve and provide access to literary treasures for future generations.