KBR's manuscript collection gets a six-monthly refresh

The Royal Library of Belgium (KBR), long a favoured spot for scholars and researchers is now pursuing a policy of actively welcoming the general public. The core of the library's collection, hundreds of magnificent illuminated manuscripts amassed by the Dukes of Burgundy in the XVth century, is now available to the public in the new KBR Museum. Due to the fragility of the documents they can only be displayed for six months after which they need to rest for six years, so every six months the display changes and the first display has just been renewed. Additionally, the library's cafeteria, long a secret Brussels gem with its spectacular terrace views, has been converted into a restaurant named Albert and the terrace is opening this week. Curator Elena Savini talks about the challenge and rewards of putting on a new show every six months.