Beatrix Potter, the beloved author of the "Peter Rabbit" books, would have turned 150 years old in 2016. To celebrate, the Free Library of Philadelphia is showcasing a collection of Potter's works in the Rare Book Department now through Sunday, Feb. 28. Guided tours of the highlights will be available at 11 a.m. each day.
The small display features over two dozen items from the department’s Potter collection, which is the largest outside of Great Britain, including original watercolors, handwritten manuscripts, first editions and collectibles. One of the 450 privately printed copies of "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" will be displayed. So will the original manuscript of "The Tailor of Gloucester" which the author Potter originally created as a Christmas gift to the daughter of her former governess.
Potter's illustration of Peter Rabbit is one of the most iconic children's literary characters of the 20th century. The author's many happy tales - or should we say tails - have lived on tiny bookshelves for generations, creating an indelible legacy.
Beatrix Potter's Treasures
Now through Sunday, February 289 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday | Free admission
Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Books Department
1901 Vine St.
(215) 686-5322