Jay-Z’s tribute at the Brooklyn Public Library raked in record attendance numbers. BPL has been bustling with business after the immersive “Book of HOV” exhibit went live. The New York native set a record in engagement for the five-month period his exhibit was at the NYC borough’s central branch library.
According to the Brooklyn Paper, the Roc Nation-constructed tribute has transformed the library by artistically displaying some of Jay-Z’s most iconic lyrics, displaying a replica of one of Jay’s very first recording studios as well as never-before-seen photos of the rapper and his journey.
“The Book of HOV” opened over the summer and included a slew of interactive displays and a new take on Jay-Z’s story. It also brought about a 74% increase in attendance at the branch. The exhibit brought in over 600,000 visitors up until its Dec. 4 closing.
Linda E. Johnson, president of the BPL, said, “This exhibition is a testament to Jay-Z’s global impact, and to the dynamic energy and spirit of Brooklynites and hip-hop fans.”
She added, “We look forward to welcoming back our new patrons and cardholders who, thanks to ‘The Book of HOV,’ have already begun enjoying all of the materials, services, and programming the library has to offer.”
Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation, praised the BPL and the exhibit for highlighting Brooklyn culture while still telling Jay-Z’s story. Perez told the outlet, “What began as a seed of an idea grew to one of the most culturally significant events of 2023.”
According to reports, “The Book of HOV” tribute brought many people who have been longtime fans of Jay-Z to the city.
Jared Tennant, a Pennsylvania native, said, “I started listening to Jay-Z in the ’90s when he released ‘Reasonable Doubt’ and was instantly a fan. Jay-Z and Nas have been my two favorite MCs as far back as I can remember, and I’m a huge hip-hop fan, especially ’90s and 2000s hip-hop, so there was no way I would miss out on an exhibit like this.”
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