Drexel University Libraries, Collections & Archives, with the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences (College of Arts & Sciences) and Atwater Kent Collection at Drexel 

 

This first display of the Library Exhibit Initiative features an assignment from PSY 101 General Psychology (Winter 2024-25). Prof. Eric Zillmer asked students to select a spot in the city that brings them happiness—and visit Philadelphia Revealed, an exhibition from the Atwater Kent Collection. The Philadelphia Challenge presents students’ reflections on objects from this city history collection, interactive elements, and a Happiness Map display by the Happiness Lab at Drexel. The Library Exhibit Initiative will continue to feature students interacting with Drexel collections.

 

The Happiness Lab at Drexel University 

Are you happy? It is an important question that has persisted for some time. The Happiness Lab at Drexel University is a think tank startup designed to provide commentary, ideas, and critique on the societal, cultural, and psychological contexts of happiness, aiming to transform lives, communities, and environments. Unconstrained by traditional disciplines, the Lab promotes, supports, and celebrates the use of happiness principles, including urban citizenship, a vital component of personal happiness and wellness that fosters a sense of connection to a place, such as a university campus and a city. 

 

 

More About the Exhibit ...  

 

The Philadelphia Challenge Happiness Map   

Can a place be happy? Absolutely! Otherwise, why would anyone go on vacation? Psychology students were asked to reflect on their time at Drexel’s campus and in Philadelphia by selecting ONE spot in the city that brings them joy when they visit. From the 243 submissions, the Happiness Lab team of faculty and students chose 28 happy places, which are currently displayed in an exhibit at Hagerty Library.  

 

 

 

Happiness Field Trip to the Atwater Kent Collection at Drexel 

To explore Philadelphia’s past and its impact on the present and future, students were asked to embark on an experiential field trip to the Atwater Kent Collection at Drexel. Philadelphia Revealed: Unpacking the Attic was a large, interactive exhibit featuring hundreds of authentic objects that tell the story of Philadelphia’s 350 years of history. The students’ role was to engage with the artifacts: Choose one item that appeals to them to understand the significance it may hold in Philadelphia’s past. There is no right or wrong answer; close your eyes and imagine … they were told. 

  

 

 

Public Viewing Hours: This exhibit is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm (except during finals week). Read the Drexel Libraries’ Visitors page for additional information.