Folks are probably wondering why there are Jay-Z lyrics on the wall of the Brooklyn Public Library.
Well, the Brooklyn rapper is subject to a temporary exhibition at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Library, according to Pitchfork.com.
Officially, it’s called The Book of Hov.
“…(It includes) thousands of archived objects, including original recording masters, never-before-seen photos, iconic state wear, prestigious awards and recognitions, as well as videos and artifacts from every facet on Jay-Z’s professional life,” a statement on the exhibition’s website said.”
The exhibition opened up last Friday, but the library hasn’t announced when the exhibition will close. But branch director, Christine Schonhart, anticipated the spectacle would be open through the fall.
On The Book of Hov‘s website, one can find audio clips, text, as well as photos of the exhibition. Library staff suggests folks visiting the exhibit to bring their own phones and headphones to “augment the experience.”
There is a myriad of displays in the library’s lobby, including a multimedia “tower of power” and the “full sculpture that appears on the cover of 2009’s The Blueprint 3.”
In the New and Noteworthy room are Jay-Z’s award and recording ephemera, as well as an interactive vinyl listening station that includes records he sampled from his 13 albums.
The children’s wing includes a Jay-Z-inspired station to make paper plans, while the teen rooms host material comprising Jay-Z’s business and philanthropic ventures, as well as a bookshelf where library-goers can borrow Jay-Z-endorsed titles.
A part of the Information Commons has been transformed into a recreation of Baseline Studios — the place Hov created The Black Album, The Blueprint, The Blueprint 2: The Gift & the Curse, among other albums.
On the second floor are more magazine spreads and “a display of Jay-Z’s Armand de Brignac champagne bottles, along with an immersive multimedia room with wall-to-wall video.”
Roc Nation paid for the full expense and most of the labor for the exhibit’s installation, according to library reps, and there will be no cost to the Brooklyn Public Library or taxpayers for the exhibit.
Additionally, the company is also donating a sum of money to the library, along with copies of books and vinyl records.
For more information, go to thebookofhov.com.
Photo Credit: Rocnation Instagram
