Description: This exhibition explores the life, work, and legacy of Jane Austen (1775-1817), regarded as one of the greatest English novelists. Offering a close-up portrait of the iconic British author, whose popularity has surged over the last two decades with numerous motion picture and television adaptations of her work, the show provides tangible intimacy with Austen through the presentation of more than 100 works, including her manuscripts, personal letters, and related materials, many of which the Morgan has not exhibited in over a quarter century.

Venue Description: The Morgan Library & Museum began as the private library of financier Pierpont Morgan, one of the foremost collectors and cultural benefactors in the United States. In this complex of buildings in the heart of New York City, Morgan had begun to assemble a collection of illuminated, literary, and historical manuscripts, early printed books, and old master drawings and prints as early as 1890. Dedicated to fostering a greater knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of primarily Western history and culture, this educational institution records and reflects achievements of European and American literature, music, art, and history. In an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo with three magnificent rooms epitomizing America's Age of Elegance, The Morgan Library includes a new performance hall, a welcoming entrance on Madison Avenue, a new café and a new restaurant, a gift shop, a new reading room, and collections storage. Still one of America?s premier institutions, The Morgan Library & Museum has continued to acquire rare materials as well as important music manuscripts, early children's books, Americana, and materials from the twentieth century, all open to public, fulfilling Pierpont Morgan?s dream of making the library and its treasures available to scholars and the patrons alike. The Morgan Library & Museum is located at 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street and is open Tuesday through Thursday 10:30am- 5pm, Fridays 10:30am- 9pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm, and Sundays 11am-6pm. The Morgan is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. It closes at 4pm on Christmas and New Year's Eve. Admission to The Morgan is $12 for adults, $8 for children (under 16), $8 for seniors (65 and over), and $8 for students (with current ID). Admission to The Morgan is free for children 12 and under (must be accompanied by an adult), and is free on Fridays from 7pm- 9pm. Admission to the McKim rooms is without charge during the following times Tuesdays 3- 5pm; Fridays 7-9pm; and Sundays 4-6pm. Admission is not required to visit the Morgan Shop and Morgan Dining Room.

Upcoming Events at Morgan Library & Museum:

• Anne Morgan's War: Rebuilding Devastated France, 1917-1924 - 09/03/10 - 11/21/10