Universities promote the reading of research papers, in-depth articles and sophisticated books of all varieties. But often the books that a person reads early in life make significant impacts, too. That is the idea behind Books You Carry with You, an exhibit at James Branch Cabell Library from August 6 through the end of September, 2012. Created by and on loan from the Friends of the Richmond Public Library, the exhibit features the reflections of some 50 Richmond leaders on their childhood book inspirations. People such as VCU President Michael Rao, Rams Coach Shaka Smart, Children’s Museum of Richmond President and CEO Karen Coltrane, musician Jason Mraz and others from all walks of life share the children’s books that still inspire them today, including Shel Silverstein’s “Where the Sidewalk Ends,” Don Freeman’s “Corduroy” and several titles by Dr. Seuss.

The exhibit encourages students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the wider community to share their own childhood book inspirations as well. In the library foyer, beside the main stairway, a board is available that allows individuals to post the names of books that they read as children and thoughts on how or why these continue to inspire or stick with them today. Through the James Branch Cabell Twitter, @VCUcabell, all are also encouraged to tweet their favorite books from childhood with the hashtag #VCUreads. People may also send in brief notes about their favorites by completing this survey or posting comments on the Cabell Library Facebook page.

The exhibit is on display on the first floor of James Branch Cabell Library. It is open during all normal library hours. It is free and open to the public. The exhibit was first displayed at the main branch of the Richmond Public Library on East Franklin Street and then at the Children’s Museum of Richmond.