To be virtual or not to be: An evaluation of the Seven Ages of Man interactive multimedia exhibit at the Folger Shakespeare Library

In January of 1999, the Folger Shakespeare Library opened a new virtual exhibit titled the Seven Ages of Man to highlight some of the Folger's many "treasures." This study sought to determine the worth and success of this virtual exhibit as an extension of public access for the predominantly restricted Folger collection. The author judged the Seven Ages of Man through three instruments: interviews, questionnaires and unobtrusive observations of visitors to the gallery. While each instrument showed areas in which this virtual endeavor could be improved, overall they indicated a strong synchronization between the institution's desired results and visitor perceptions. The author is recommending careful expansion of the exhibit into media to be accessed outside of the institution, such as a World Wide Web site. Automated means of evaluation will also be recommended to monitor the future success of this and any additional virtual exhibits of the Folger Shakespeare Library.