Holding History is a student-driven public humanities program focused on the history of media and book arts.

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Since 2015, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Holding History has introduced intergenerational audiences to book objects, historical media, and special collections archives. We host an annual slate of collaborative special events & interactive experiences—from hands-on papermaking workshops on campus mall to science-fair-style events in rare book libraries where students invite audiences to turn the pages of centuries-old books.

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These bookish conversations continue in digital form on our website through The Bookish Blog, HH-produced videos about book history & bookmaking, & the Holding History Podcast.

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Our events & digital content, which seek to connect the history of media to the arts & crafts of bookmaking, are accessible, public-facing opportunities for exploration, interaction, & discovery.

 
In-Person Events Are Back!
Papermaking on Library Mall
Join us for a FREE, drop-in, hands-on papermaking session with master papermaker Robert Possehl and Holding History students. Stop by anytime and experience the joy of making a sheet of handmade paper from recycled rags and local wheat straw. Look for our bright green tent!
When
Oct 05, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where
Library Mall,
Madison, WI 53703, USA
Current Digital Projects
Instagram @uwHoldingHistory