A new exhibit in Love Library highlights the historical moments of LGBTQ+ literature, writers, and their roles in the history of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. The exhibit also celebrates the first LGBTQ course offered at a state university and taught by gay scholar, Louis Crompton, and is one event among a series of events to celebrate UNL’s support of LGBTQ studies. A collaborative project between Timothy Schaffert, Susan Rosowski Associate Professor of English and director of the Creative Writing Program; Erin Colonna, Graphic Designer, Libraries; Traci Robison, Assistant Professor of Practice and Outreach Archivist; and Andrew Jewell, Professor and Interim Chair of Digital Initiatives and Special Collections, the exhibit draws its title, “Unkissed Kisses,” from a poem by Oscar Wilde, who visited the University of Nebraska in 1882.

The exhibit will be open for the remainder of the fall through the spring semester and can be viewed in two locations within Love Library, in the lobby of the second floor and in display classes on the lower level of Love South.

Schaffert and Robison created a digital supplement (https://libarchives.unl.edu/project/unkissed-kisses/) to the exhibit with additional information about featured topics and individuals that will be released soon. The digital component will also allow those who are not able to visit Love to learn from the exhibit.