The Great Depression

In the library lobby there is an exhibition of front pages of Icelandic newspaper from the years of the Great Depresson in the 1930's. Many of the headlines sound disturbingly familiar today in the current financial crisis. The exhibition also shows many books, leaflets and brochures published in these years. There is also a cabinet showing the personal effects of a young man who tried to support his mother and siblings with all means, not all of them legal.

The depression sharpened political divisions and there was a great divide between those furthest to the left and right of the political spectrum; the Icelandic communist party and supporters of nazism.

The exibition is open during library opening hours from 9 am to 5 pm during weekdays, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays.

Library exhibitions are open to all and entry is free of charge.