Spinning a clever twist on a common phrase, the Old Dominion Postcard Club (ODPCC) introduces its unique “House of Postcards” exhibit at the Chester library. Throughout the month of July, library patrons can peruse the club’s colorful postcard displays.
The exhibit’s title, evoking the classic house of cards, works on a literal and a figurative level. Hoping to grab library visitors’ attention as they enter, the club members constructed an actual house of postcards, which stands seven feet tall. “As far as we know, it’s the first in the world,” ODPCC president, Mike Uzel, says. Additionally, the club has transformed the library into a metaphorical house of postcards, as displays and posters fill the building and line the walls.
“This exhibit is a chance for club members to display a portion of their collections in a way the public will find interesting,” club vice president, Tim O’Gorman, expresses. The core of the exhibit showcases club members’ collections mounted on over 30 display boards; some of which feature such subjects as antique cars, Boy Scouts, and postcards made of leather. Visitors will also see historic views of Chester and a fun children’s display, presenting postcards as “windows to the past” with antique images targeted toward its younger audience.
With their elaborate exhibit, the club is excited to share its favorite pastime with the public and reveal their impressive collections. “Many people don’t know about postcard collecting, but there’s a lot you can learn from it,” Uzel says. Collectors from all walks of life can discover new findings about history, art, architecture, and even more, as the hobby appeals to a wide range of interests. “There is an infinite number of topics to collect,” O’Gorman adds.
As supporters of local artists through ongoing monthly art shows, the library staff is enthusiastic about the exhibit as well. The display is educational and has great public appeal, especially through its geographical and historical elements, Kelly Dalton, the acting assistant manager at the Chester branch, remarks. “It’s something different and interesting.” Of note, the Chesterfield County Public Library has its own digital postcard collection, which can be accessed through the library’s website, www.library.chesterfield.gov.
At 3 p.m. on July 9, a reception will be held at the library to formally introduce the exhibit and the club. Light refreshments will be provided, and all are encouraged to visit and ask questions. The ODPCC welcomes new members to join its regular meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at the Jewish Community Center in Richmond. Their annual postcard show, one of the largest on the East Coast with 30 vendors, is held on November 11 and 12 at the Chester campus at John Tyler Community College. For more information about the club, visit their website, www.olddominionpcc.com.
