"During its year-long celebration of its Bicentennial, the Library of Congress is recognizing a number of Americans whose varied creative contributions to American life have made them living legends," said Librarian of Congress James Billington. "Selected by the Library's curators and subject specialists, those honored include artists, writers, activists, film makers, physicians, entertainers, sports figures, and public servants. Each in his or her own way has advanced and embodied the quintessentially American ideal of individual creativity, conviction, dedication, and exuberance. Their professional accomplishments and sense of commitment have enabled them to provide examples of personal excellence that have benefitted others and enriched our nation in a variety of ways."
The list of "Living Legends" reflects the breadth and diversity of America's cultural and civic heritage, which is mirrored in the Library's unparalleled collections of more than 119 million items in some 460 languages. Among those in 10 disciplines who have been selected are children's author and illustrator Maurice Sendak, whose works enrich the Library's Children's Literature collection; author William Styron, who has worked with the Library's Center for the Book to promote literacy and some of whose personal papers are housed in the Library's Manuscript Division; caricaturist Al Hirshfeld, whose craft is honored by the Library's Swann Gallery of Caricature and Cartoon; composer Stephen Sondheim, whose 70th birthday will be celebrated on May 22 at a special musical tribute in the Library's Coolidge Auditorium; filmmaker Steven Spielberg, two of whose films are included in the Library's National Film Registry (E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial and Raiders of the Lost Ark); percussionist Mickey Hart and fo ...More...
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