On May 13, the Free Library's Special Collections Division will present Our Five Senses, the first family friendly, fully-interactive exhibition at the Free Library. The exhibition connects the science of the senses with the mind and the literary experience. Unique materials in the exhibition cross three centuries of human discovery. 

The exhibition will run from May 13 - November 2, 2019, Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. Visitors will learn about their identity, perceptions, and brain development by following five anthropomorphic characters (Touch, Taste, Sight, Hearing, and Smell) across multiple sensory stations. These hands-on sensory stations create intergenerational conversations around literacy, science, and fun! Visitors can also sign up for free curator-led tours during the exhibition.

The exhibition was inspired by noted children's book author and illustrator, Aliki. In 1962, she published My Five Senses, a timeless picture book that is still read by librarians and families today. In 1979, Aliki donated the artwork to the Children's Literature Research Collection and original pieces from My Five Senses will be on view during the exhibition. This gift inspired us to re-examine how children and adults use their senses to explore and interpret the worldaround them. Aliki currently resides in Manhattan and continues to publish picture books. 

Local author/illustrator and 2017 Summer of Wonder artist Greg Pizzoli created five friendly anthropomorphic characters for Our Five Senses. These characters will guide visitors around the gallery, helping them learn about their senses.

Programming for the exhibition will take place around Parkway Central Library and in the Neighborhood Library Services Division.

Support for this exhibition has been generously provided by Independence Foundation and PNC. The Free Library of Philadelphia gratefully acknowledges additional contributions from individuals.