The Reading Public Museum
Past Exhibits
Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites
“Storyland” brings seven beloved picture books, like “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” and “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” to life in bilingual, interactive environments. This exhibit promotes pre-reading skills for children through play, supported by Target, the State of Minnesota, and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Courting Style: Women’s Tennis Fashion
“Courting Style: Women’s Tennis Fashion” showcases the evolution of tennis attire from the 1870s to today, featuring outfits worn by icons like Serena Williams and Martina Navratilova. Drawn from the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the exhibit explores how tennis fashion reflects broader social and cultural changes in style and identity.
American Women Artists from the Collection
The Reading Public Museum presents “American Women Artists from the Collection,” featuring nearly thirty works by notable women artists from 1913 onward. The exhibition showcases paintings and sculptures by artists such as Sara Miriam Peale, Fern Coppedge, and Anna Hyatt Huntington, highlighting the significant contributions of women in art over 150 years.
Public Art from the Great Depression
“The American Spirit: Public Art from the Great Depression” showcases artwork from the PWAP, a New Deal program providing jobs for artists and beautifying public spaces. From 1933-1934, 3,749 artists created 15,663 works reflecting the “American Scene,” now on view from RPM’s collection on permanent loan from the U.S. Government.
Exploring Pennsylvania’s Waterways
“In Nature’s Studio: Exploring Pennsylvania’s Waterways” showcases eight paintings on loan from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, highlighting rivers, creeks, and streams in southeastern Pennsylvania. Featuring works by the Peale family and lesser-known artists, the exhibit invites viewers to explore American landscape painting and find inspiration in local waterways.
Brick City with LEGO® Bricks
“Brick City” showcases iconic buildings from around the world, recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore. Explore global landmarks, from New York skyscrapers to medieval Japanese castles, with highlights like London St Pancras Station. Enjoy build stations to inspire your own LEGO® creations and celebrate your favorite cities!






