On a quest for an extra-special one-of-a-kind gift to capture someone’s attention? Whether it’s for the holidays, a birthday celebration or any other occasion, take a journey to The Reading Public Museum Gift Shop. Over the past few years, the gift shop has grown significantly, expanding its selection of merchandise to meet the desires and imaginations of kids and adults alike. Step in and explore the collection of unique, beautifully handcrafted products created by local artists. Surprise an eco-minded friend with a piece of art made
from recycled utensils. Or buy a fashionable loved one a pair of hand-painted earrings.
Many choices to suit personal tastes are waiting for you right inside the door.
Handcrafted Treasures
Lining the shelves of the shop are the exquisite works of more than 15 local artists. The craftsmanship and intricacies of metal working, pottery, jewelry making and fine art provide a mini-museum experience all its own, enriching your visual shopping and gift-giving experience. A timeless greeting card is a great place to start your shopping excursion. Customer Service Gift Shop Coordinator Jeffery Fick points out, “A card is one of the most affordable things to send somebody for the holiday.” Astonish the intended recipient by sending them a greeting card with the delicate designs of Scherenschnitte, a German paper-cutting art, or the softness of a watercolor painting. Choose the perfect greeting card from a wide variety of techniques used by each of the artists.
Along with a gorgeous selection of cards, you will also find a multitude of inspiring gifts from knitted and crocheted items like coasters and table runners, to fine art to adorn your walls, or special one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces made from various mediums (think bottle caps or polymer clay). For the children in your life, there is an exciting assortment of fascinating rocks and minerals, dinosaurs and other fun items to keep them busy and learning at the same time.
Be sure to explore all the Christmas-themed gifts, too. Fick says, “We want to continue providing people with good, strong gifts for the holidays.” Gaze upon the collection of stars made from small, hand-rolled pieces of colorful paper or artisan-made Christmas ornaments and painted Christmas balls with snowmen and other winter themes. These make a great addition to your holiday décor or family ornament collection.
Holiday Open House
Get in the holiday spirit early by visiting the gift shop for a special Thanksgiving Open House. Shop every weekend between Thanksgiving and Christmas, enjoying discounts of 20 percent for museum members, 10 percent for non-members and free gift wrapping for all. Price ranges vary, but whatever your budget, there is something for everyone on your list. During your visit, you’ll want to also admire the photos and biographies of each local artist.
Shop Admission-Free.
The gift shop is free and open to the public. No museum admission fee is required to go on this memorable shopping spree.
Museum Memories.
Much of the merchandise is related to past and current museum exhibits, allowing memories of fine art shows to resonate again and again in daily life.
