Bringing the Library of Congress Collections to Life: A New Digital Interactive Experience for Young Researchers
Bringing the Library of Congress Collections to Life: A New Digital Interactive Experience for Young Researchers
The Library of Congress has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at inspiring young researchers. Named The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks Discovery, this 4,000-square-foot gallery invites children aged 8 to 15 to explore its extensive collection of over 184 million items through interactive design and hands-on activities. Created as part of the Library's A Library for You initiative, The Source provides children with direct access to primary resources including films, texts, sounds, and images. This groundbreaking project highlights the importance of research skills in a captivating manner that resonates with today's youth.
A Collaborative Effort in Design
Led by SKOLNICK Architecture PLLC, the gallery's design integrates interpretive planning and exhibition design, collaborating closely with Hyperquake, known for their expertise in digital storytelling and interactive experiences. Originally developed by Potion, which Hyperquake acquired in 2024, this project represents a continuity of creative vision that seeks to empower young audiences through engaging research methodologies. The team, under the guidance of Philip R. Tiongson, worked tirelessly alongside Library experts to craft an environment that promotes inquiry and curiosity among young visitors.
In the words of Claire Bradley, a member of Hyperquake's Experiences Team, “We worked closely with the Library to ensure every interaction felt intuitive and empowering for young researchers.” This collaborative spirit is evident in every aspect of The Source, where the primary goal is to translate complex research processes into accessible, interactive experiences for younger audiences.
Interactive Features to Foster Research Skills
The journey begins in the Welcome Room, featuring a whimsical five-sided Card Catalog that ignites curiosity through projection-mapped animations revealing objects from the Library's vast collections. Children are introduced to seven Library staff members at the Librarian Desk, who guide them in understanding how researchers utilize primary sources and direct them to the four distinct Collections Zones.
In the Collections Room, each zone is anchored by digital interactives crafted by Hyperquake. Here, more than 200 RFID-enabled objects allow young researchers to engage with historical documents, magnify images, and listen to audio clips. The installed Investigation Stations serve as hubs of discovery, where kids can dive deeper into the materials at their own pace. Hands-on tools – such as a film projector and a record player – provide physical interaction with traditional media formats, fostering a tactile learning environment where young visitors can compare, explore, and cultivate their natural curiosity.
At the Researcher Desk, curated archival boxes shed light on how real-life researchers, including younger individuals, have utilized Library resources to pursue their interests and questions. The experience culminates at the Source Book, where children create digital collages and establish research intentions, contributing their work to an ever-evolving projection wall that reflects the collaborative spirit of The Source.
Transforming Young Visitors into Active Researchers
According to Mary Franck, Creative Director of Experiences at Hyperquake, “The Source is not just an exhibit; it is a center for active research.” The design philosophy encourages magical, intuitive, and empowering interactions that help children view themselves as researchers from the moment they enter the gallery. The seamless blending of tactile artifacts with digital features creates a dynamic learning environment that promotes critical skills such as noticing, questioning, and analysis.
This project represents a strategic partnership that combines expertise in interpretive planning and exhibition design with cutting-edge digital innovation. While SKOLNICK focuses on the physical space and interpretative framework, Hyperquake enhances the experience with interactive installations and user-friendly design. The collaboration aims to evoke an appreciation for research and discovery in the minds of young explorers.
Open to the public at the Library’s Jefferson Building, The Source reserves weekday mornings for school groups during the academic year while welcoming general visitors from Tuesday through Saturday. This initiative stands as a testament to the Library's commitment to making knowledge accessible and exciting for the next generation of researchers.
About Hyperquake
Established in 1986, Hyperquake is a creative strategy, branding, and experience design agency with locations in Cincinnati, Brooklyn, Salt Lake City, and Portland. Specializing in creating ambitious brands and experiences, Hyperquake engages with a variety of clients, from startups to global enterprises, to facilitate vision activation and growth. For more information, visit their website at hyperquake.com.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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