Goppion, a leader in the design, construction, assembly and installation of cutting-edge display cases and installations, has delivered the complete fit-out for the new gallery, The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks Discovery, at the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
Experiential galleries have become a key component of many attractions. Although they can be challenging to deliver, when done well, they can enhance engagement and reach new audiences, such as younger demographics.
The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks Discovery Image © Shawn Miller / Library of Congress
In the US, the Library of Congress has opened a new experiential gallery designed for children and teens visiting with their families and school groups.
The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks Discovery has been created 'with kids for kids', and focuses on literature, narratives and learning activities for younger guests.
Complete coordination of design and fit-out
Developed for visitors aged 8 to 15, the interactive gallery encourages keen young researchers to examine image, film, audio and text collections at the Library through guided exploration and open-ended discovery.
Shari Werb, director of the Library’s Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement, says the project is: "…a new way of thinking about how the Library of Congress can serve young people as they explore topics of interest; we want to encourage them to think like creators and researchers.
"It’s a place where questions are welcome, experimentation is encouraged, and curiosity leads the way, helping kids build confidence at a formative age."
The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks DiscoveryImage © Shawn Miller / Library of Congress
Planning for the 370-square-metre (4,000-square-foot) gallery began in 2021. Located in the Jefferson Building, it features display exhibition design from SKOLNICK Architecture and the Library of Congress Center for Exhibits and Interpretation and Exhibits Office.
The Source is the latest project in Goppion’s ongoing partnership with the Library of Congress. Previous contributions include work for the Treasures Gallery and the Gift Shop, as well as customised Universal Cases for temporary exhibitions, offering greater public access to the Library’s extensive collections.
For this latest project, Goppion provided the entire exhibition fit-out, coordinating the design and fabrication of the whole installation. Its remit included lighting systems, graphic panels, interactive tables, integrated AV components, and display cases.
Close collaboration was required between various teams, such as designers and engineers, as well as specialised partners and local assembly sites, to ensure the smooth integration of all fit-out elements within a complex, highly customised environment.
Every facet of design and delivery was meticulously aligned to meet the client’s aesthetic and functional specifications.
The resulting gallery is arranged into four colour-coded, immersive zones. Each focuses on a different form of primary source material, including text, image, sound, or film.
The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks DiscoveryImage © Shawn Miller / Library of Congress
A cohesive result was required within tight spatial and logistical constraints. Particular care was taken with safety, accessibility, and durability, ensuring that all materials and components met the demanding requirements of a busy public educational environment.
"Our team was delighted to participate in the creation of the Library’s engaging new child-friendly space," says a spokesperson from Goppion.
"The combination of technical precision, educational intent and creative fit-out design has made this project unique within the Library of Congress’ public offer as it continues to evolve, meeting the diverse needs and expectations of a modern audience."
Recently, Goppion shared details of its project to design, manufacture and install advanced display cases at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
