Increasing Care for the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library’s Collection

FAIN: CHA-276849-22

Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, Inc. (Indianapolis, IN 46204-1708)
Julia Whitehead (Project Director: May 2020 to present)

The purchase and installation of climate control equipment, a security system, new lighting, and exhibition cases to ensure that the memorabilia and manuscript collections at the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library (KVML) are preserved and secure.

The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library (KVML) requests support to purchase and install crucial collections care and security systems and updates for their facility. KVML champions the writer Kurt Vonnegut through the operation of a museum and through humanities programs. KVML has a large collection of memorabilia related to Vonnegut, including his typewriter, his Purple Heart, letters, and family photographs. Unfortunately, KVML’s collection is not stored in ideal preservation conditions. Through this project, KVML will make crucial updates to the 10,000 square foot building it owns, specifically: installing UV film; purchasing and installing a security system; replacing two HVAC units; replacing EIFS; transitioning to LED lighting; replacing the roof; and installing humidity-controlled exhibit cases and storage cases. These changes will ensure future generations have the opportunity to visit KVML and learn about the historical context and literary merit of Kurt Vonnegut’s work.