World libraries: “Olympex 2012: Collecting the Olympic Games” Exhibition in the British Library

The International Olympic Committee and the British Library present this visually striking exhibition telling the fascinating story of the past and present of the Olympic Games through the medium of postage stamps and related memorabilia.

“Olympex 2012” offers a unique insight into the history, symbolism and iconography of the Olympic movement, from the first modern Games in 1896, to the celebration of the 1908 and 1948 Olympic Games in London, and on to London 2012. Reflecting the manner in which the Olympic spirit touches the individual spirit, the exhibition is drawn largely from the collections of private collectors. The interests and actions of these individual collectors give this display a unique character and demonstrate how each of us can become involved in curating the Olympic story.

“Olympex 2012” includes some 2500 stamps and postal items and intriguing pieces of related Olympic memorabilia. Each stamp, postcard and letter on display tells a story. They do this through the subjectmatter featured on them and the design treatment applied to that subject. Understanding who sent them, and to whom, also gives very personal insights to historical events.