A free pop-up exhibition celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth will be in Alton Library throughout July.
Called 2½ Centuries of Jane Austen, it charts the history and impact of Jane’s novels over the last 250 years, from her birth in 1775 to the present day.
It covers her inspirations, illustrations and adaptations of her works, authors inspired by her, film and television adaptations, and Jane Austen’s Hampshire.
It showcases key objects from the Jane Austen’s House collection, including first editions of Jane’s novels and illustrations from later editions.
The words in the exhibition were written by Sophie Reynolds, the head of collections, interpretation and events at Jane Austen’s House, and the exhibition was designed by artist and designer Lena Gilbert.
Sophie said: “We are so delighted that this display will be appearing in libraries across Hampshire this year.
“Jane Austen was a real Hampshire girl and lived in the county for most of her life. We hope that library-goers enjoy learning about Jane Austen’s local connections, as well as tracing her enduring legacy from 1775 right up to 2025.”
Jane Austen’s House is hosting a series of festivals to celebrate Jane’s 250th anniversary year.
Tickets are on sale for the Spring Fling: Sense and Sensibility Festival (May 1 to 11), and the Emma Festival (July 12 to 20), which features the museum’s annual Dress Up Day on July 19.
Tickets for the remaining festivals, Persuasion and Poetry (September 12 to 21), and Jane Austen’s Birthday Celebration Week (December 13 to 21), will be on sale soon.
The festivals will feature themed tours, walks, performances, workshops, pop-up talks and late views. For tickets visit janeaustens.house/visit/whats-on/