The Free Library of Philadelphia is exploring how different cultures have answered the age-old question of mortality in its new exhibit, "Or Not To Be."

Named after the famous soliloquy from William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the exhibit displays books, music, artwork and other items from the Free Library's collections that focus on death and how it has inspired, confounded and unnerved people. The items, which also can be viewed online , range from books that date to the mid-18th century to international musical scores about grief.

"Confronting death is complicated, yet it is a shared reality," said Gary Galván, co-curator of the exhibit. "With this exhibition, we offer visitors a dignified perspective on a topic that crosses cultures and generations."

The free exhibit is open through

See Full Page