MASON, MI— A new exhibit at the Library of Michigan is providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the Holocaust from an American perspective. The exhibit, titled “Americans and The Holocaust,” opened this Saturday and will be available for viewing until February 22nd.
One of 50 libraries across the United States selected to host the exhibit, the Library of Michigan offers a deep dive into how the United States responded to the Holocaust and the impact it had on American citizens during World War II. Featuring a range of materials, including newspapers, photographs, and video footage, the exhibit aims to give visitors a better understanding of America’s involvement in the war and the broader implications of the Holocaust on the home front.
Adam Oster, Community Engagement Librarian at the Library of Michigan, emphasized the importance of the exhibit as a learning experience for the public. “So many people may not know this aspect of history within World War II, and how the Holocaust was impacting people here in the United States,” Oster explained.
The exhibit sheds light on the American public’s awareness of the atrocities happening in Europe and the complex ways in which the U.S. government and citizens responded. It provides a lens through which visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how historical events unfolded and how they shaped American attitudes toward the Holocaust.
Ronald Walters, a recent visitor to the exhibit, spoke about the importance of making this kind of information publicly accessible. “There’s a lot of things that people tend to leave out, and it’s really important to have a specific space in an academic setting where people can come and learn about these things,” Walters said. He also noted the relevance of the exhibit in light of current global events, stressing the need for historical education as a means of fostering understanding.
Oster also encouraged visitors to engage with the exhibit critically, offering a chance to analyze history from a different viewpoint. “Maybe they’ll learn something they weren’t aware of,” he said, highlighting the value of exploring history beyond traditional narratives.
The “Americans and The Holocaust” exhibit is expected to travel to the Warren Public Library next, continuing its mission to educate and inform communities across the country about this significant chapter in history.
