Americans and the Holocaust: A Traveling Exhibition for Libraries

September 28th–November 9th, 2025
@Central Library

Bullitt County Public Library is honored to be one of 50 libraries selected nationwide to host the second tour of Americans and the Holocaust, a traveling exhibition presented by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association.

Originally launched at the Museum in Washington, D.C. in 2018, this powerful 1,100-square-foot exhibit draws on a wealth of primary sources from the 1930s and '40s to explore how Americans—government officials, journalists, aid organizations, and everyday citizens—responded to the rise of Nazism, war, and genocide in Europe.

Far from a simple history lesson, this immersive exhibition challenges widely held assumptions that Americans knew little and did nothing. Instead, it presents a nuanced portrait of American society during this era, shaped by the Great Depression, isolationism, xenophobia, racism, and antisemitism.

Through personal stories and public opinion, Americans and the Holocaust invites visitors to grapple with difficult questions about awareness, action, and complicity—then and now. It asks not only, “What did Americans know?” but also, “What would I have done?” and “What will I do?”

Promotional graphic for the exhibit "Americans and the Holocaust," featuring a blurred American flag in the background. Large text reads: "Coming soon to your library: Americans and the Holocaust." Below, two questions are posed: "What did Americans know?" and "What more could have been done?" Logos at the bottom represent the American Library Association (ALA) and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Related Events

The following preview events have already passed:

Events during the exhibit will include:

Opening Celebration 

Kick off the exhibit with a special screening of the 2022 documentary The U.S. and the Holocaust by Ken Burns, followed by discussion, guided tours, and a community reception sponsored by the Friends of BCPL. Ages 12 and up.

▶ Wednesday, October 1st | 3:30–7:30 PM @Central

Professional Development Day: Teaching the Holocaust Through the Americans and the Holocaust Exhibit 

Educator Kimberly Thompson, USHMM fellow and Holocaust education leader, provides teachers with training to guide student tours of the Americans and the Holocaust exhibit. Participants will gain strategies, resources, and professional development credit. Educators ages 21 and up.

▶ Saturday, October 4th | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM @Central

Americans & the Holocaust Book Discussion | Ascension: Portrait of a Woman (Three Generations of Women)

Author Dana Walker Lindley discusses her novel Ascension, inspired by WWII flight nurses and their ties to Louisville’s Bowman Field. The story explores courage, sacrifice, and resilience during global crisis. Registration is required for guaranteed seating and to receive a complimentary copy of the book. Ages 12 and up.

▶ Thursday, October 9th | 6:30–7:30 PM @Central

Continuing the Conversation: Talking with Young People About the Holocaust

Kimberly Thompson, USHMM fellow and Holocaust education leader, will share strategies, techniques, and resources to foster age-appropriate, empathetic, and reflective conversations about the Holocaust, its history, and its modern relevance. Ages 12 and up.

▶ Tuesday, October 14th | 6:00–7:00 PM @Central

Americans & the Holocaust Book Discussion: They Called Us Enemy 

Discover George Takei’s award-winning graphic memoir about his childhood in U.S. incarceration camps during WWII. This powerful story explores identity, resilience, and the meaning of belonging in America. Ages 13–19.

▶ Wednesday, October 15th | 5:00–6:00 PM @Central

Anti-Semitism in America

Explore how anti-Semitism shaped American attitudes and policies during the Holocaust. Emily Knight, high school teacher and Holocaust studies scholar, examines the U.S. response to Jewish refugees and the war. Especially recommended for teens, parents, and educators.  Ages 12 and up.

▶ Wednesday, October 22nd | 6:00–7:00 PM @Central

Voices from the Past: Preserving Holocaust Survivor Stories

Author and oral historian Arwen Donahue shares powerful stories from Holocaust survivors who resettled in Kentucky, drawn from a statewide oral history project. Hear excerpts, learn about the interview process, and explore why preserving these voices matters now more than ever. Ages 12 and up.

▶ Sunday, November 2nd | 2:00–3:00 PM @Central

The Importance of Learning About the Holocaust Today

Educator and USHMM Teacher Fellow Dan Penner reflects on why Holocaust education remains essential in today’s world. Drawing on decades of teaching experience and travels to Holocaust sites in Europe, he will lead a meaningful closing-day discussion on memory, history, and relevance.  Ages 12 and up.

▶ Sunday, November 9th | 2:00–3:00 PM @Central

 

Suggested Reading

More Resources for Exhibit Visitors & Educators