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Why One Topeka Library Wants You To Share Your Pandemic-Related Stories And Symbols

By Brian Ellison,

Published September 25, 2020 at 4:16 PM CDT

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A roll of white toilet paper on a wood floor with several squares unrolled and a protective mask where the paper stops — A new exhibit opening in Topeka, Kansas, on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic features two obvious physical reminders — face masks and toilet paper.

A roll of toilet paper and videos remembering loved ones lost are featured in a new collection.

A Kansas history librarian realized waiting until the pandemic was over was not the time to begin gathering objects to illustrate this unique time in history. She explained what has been collected so far, and what will be done to preserve the artifacts for future study and remembrance.

Donna Rae Pearson, history librarian for the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

"A Moment in Time: Our Local Responses to a Global Crisis" will be on display from Oct. 9 to Nov. 29 in the Alice C. Sabatini Gallery at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66604. Find more information at TSCPL.org.

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Brian Ellison

As a host and contributor at KCUR, I seek to create a more informed citizenry and richer community. I want to enlighten and inspire our audience by delivering the information they need with accuracy and urgency, clarifying what’s complicated and teasing out the complexities of what seems simple. I work to craft conversations that reveal realities in our midst and model civil discourse in a divided world. Follow me on Twitter @ptsbrian or email me at brian@kcur.org.

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Mackenzie Martin

Whether it’s something happening right now or something that happened 100 years ago, some stories don’t fit in the short few minutes of a newscast. As a podcast producer and reporter at KCUR Studios, I help investigate questions and local curiosities in a way that brings listeners along for adventures with plot twists and thought-provoking ideas. Sometimes there isn’t an easy answer in the end – but my hope is that we all leave with a greater understanding of the city we live in. Reach me at mackenzie@kcur.org.

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Danie Alexander

As senior producer of Up To Date, I want our listeners to hear familiar and new voices that shine light on the issues and challenges facing the myriad communities KCUR serves, and to expose our audiences to the wonderful and the creative in the Kansas City area. Just as important to me is an obligation to mentor the next generation of producers to ensure that the important conversations continue. Reach me at alexanderdk@kcur.org.

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