Annual Creche Exhibit at the University of Dayton

The University of Dayton’s annual Christmas exhibit explores the plants and animals used in Nativity scenes, including gourds, mother-of-pearl, beeswax, and more,.

The free, family-friendly exhibit opens Nov. 20 in Roesch Library; creches are displayed in four areas of the library –including a special display in honor of the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s first creche in 1223.

New this year, audio tours are available for each gallery. Family-friendly interactive stations also allow visitors to create a poinsettia ornament and decorate a Nativity scene Christmas card with animals of their choice.

To see all areas of the exhibit, visit between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday from when the Marian Library is open to the public.

Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 8, Dec. 23 – Jan. 1

WEEKEND DATES AND HOURS:

• 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3
• 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and Sunday, Dec. 10
• 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16 and Sunday, Dec. 17

Please check the Marian Library calendar before visiting.

The University of Dayton Marian Library crèche collection has more than 3,600 sets from many parts of the world. The library, which strives to make the Virgin Mary better known and loved, marks its 80th anniversary this year. It currently holds 112,200 books in 150 languages, some dating back to the 15th century; 30,000 Marian postcards, 10,000 holy cards, 9,000 stamps, 700 pieces of sheet music, rosaries, wine bottle labels, and more.