The Library Company of Philadelphia
Erika Piola serves as the Director of the Visual Culture Program at the Library Company of Philadelphia, a position held since September 1997. The Visual Culture Program promotes visual literacy and the use of historical images as primary sources, facilitating research and interpretation through various initiatives including conferences, exhibitions, and fellowships. Notable projects under Erika Piola's direction include the curation of "Imperfect History: Curating the Graphics Art Collection at Benjamin Franklin’s Public Library" and the organization of the symposium "William Birch and the Complexities of American Visual Culture." Prior roles at the Library Company include Curator of Graphic Arts and Associate Curator, contributing to the management of extensive collections and the promotion of the Library's resources through research and professional publications. Erika Piola holds an MA in History from the University of Pennsylvania and a BA in History from Haverford College.
The Library Company of Philadelphia
Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1731, the Library Company of Philadelphia was a learning community of citizens seeking to improve themselves and their city through discourse informed by shared books. Today, the Library Company continues this founding legacy as one of the world’s foremost research libraries for American history, culture, and society, stewarding collections of books and manuscripts, prints and photographs, and art and artifacts. As such, the Library Company connects premier collections, expert staff, an engaged public, and an exciting array of scholars, who together generate new scholarship, exhibitions, public programs, and online resources. We foster a learning community grounded in our historic collections that contributes to and amplifies knowledge of American culture and society and works for the benefit of all. The Library Company connects with thousands of visitors each year ensuring the lessons of the past instruct, amaze, and inspire future generations to come.