Exhibit at the Library of Congress - Closing February, 28 2026

“Collecting Memories: Treasures from the Library of Congress” is the current major exhibition at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. It’s often referred to simply as Treasures from the Library of Congress and showcases a remarkable range of historically and culturally significant items from one of the world’s largest and most varied collections.

The Library of Congress highlights Omar Ibn Said’s autobiography as part of its “Treasures from the Library of Congress” exhibit series, where his life and writings are featured under the section “A Remarkable Autobiography of an Enslaved West African Scholar.” This presentation places his manuscript in historical context for exhibit visitors and online.

The almost life-size photo makes Mr. Omar Ibn Said look real life. The mid-19th-century portrait is often dated around 1850 and does not have a confirmed photographer credited in the Library of Congress catalog records or standard historical references. Omar Ibn Said’s headwear combines elements of Islamic tradition and West African heritage.

View Omar Ibn Said’s manuscript here: Library of Congress – Omar Ibn Said

This exhibition is the inaugural show in the David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery at the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building. It opened on June 14, 2024 and is on view through February 28, 2026. The exhibition will be closing soon.