Exploring Human Origins: What Does It Mean To Be Human?

pictures of human genus faces throughout history, overlaid onto a landscape and sunset

John Anthony Gurche, Reconstructed Faces. Karen Carr Studio, Landscape Illustration.

This Smithsonian traveling exhibition encourages a public conversation that focuses on multiple perspectives of what it means to be human — one that embraces the ideas and beliefs of non-scientists and fosters greater appreciation of the complexity of the science of human evolution.

Exploring Human Origins will inspire people to contemplate their place in the natural world and reflect on how human ancestors such as Homo neanderthalensis, Homo heidelbergensis and Homo erectus evolved to adapt in a variety of climates over millions of years.

Through panels, interactive kiosks, hands-on displays and videos, the exhibit invites viewers of all ages to explore and learn about the milestones in the evolutionary journey of becoming human.

September 3 – November 15, 2024

The exhibition is located at William S. Morton Library, on our Richmond campus, at 3406 Chamberlayne Ave, Richmond, VA, 23227.

The exhibit is free and open to the public during the library’s operating hours.

Library Hours:

Monday: 9 AM – 6 PM

Tuesday: 9 AM – 5 PM

Wednesday: 9 AM – 5 PM

Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM

Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM

Saturday: 9 AM – 1 PM

Sunday: Closed

The library is marked #4 on the campus map. Parking is available on the street, on Melrose Ave and Westwood Ave. Please leave the campus parking lots available for students and faculty.

In addition, scientists and other experts from the NMNH Human Origins Program will visit Richmond, VA in October to host events for the community, including a science program, educator workshop, community conversations and more. Check back soon for specific dates.

William Smith Morton Library welcomes the public during all open hours, not just for the exhibit. To borrow materials and access additional resources, you can register for a membership card here.

For any further questions about the exhibit, please email one or all of the following:

Dr. Chris Burton, Program Coordinator & Director of the Leadership Institute, at chris.burton@upsem.edu.

Anna Colangelo, Marketing & Relationship Strategist, at acolangelo@upsem.edu.

Robin McCall, Seminary Librarian & Assistant Professor of Bibliography and Research, rmccall@upsem.edu.

Exploring Human Origins: Promoting a National Conversation on Human Evolution is administered by ALA’s Public Programs Office in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s (NMNH) Human Origins Program.