Shakespeare exhibit opens at Texas A&M University

After attending the first in a nearly monthlong slate of events, several visitors filed into the exhibit, patiently awaiting their turn to get a closer look at the printing of the Bard's stories.

The exhibit is sponsored by the Folger Shakespeare Library and the Cincinnati Museum Center as it makes its way to all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico in 2016 for the 400th anniversary of the writer's death.

Kevin O'Sullivan, instructional assistant professor and curator of modern literature at Texas A&M's Cushing Memorial Library and Archives, said securing the prestigious opportunity to host the exhibit in Texas is an honor he does not take lightly.

In a lecture preceding the opening reception, Laura Estill — assistant professor of English at Texas A&M University and editor of the World Shakespeare Bibliography — explained the first printing of the folio included Shakespeare's dramatic works and none of his poetry.

In addition to getting people involved in the activities that are specifically related to the Shakespeare exhibit, O'Sullivan said he hopes the events will also give community members a better idea of the opportunities the university has to offer year-round.