Award Celebration 2026 - Support the Newberry!
Thank you for supporting the Newberry as part of our Award Celebration! You may support us through the following auction items or by making a contribution. Maintaining our commitment to free and open access to our collections is about fostering curiosity for all in the years to come. Your support isn’t just a donation; it’s an investment in the “What if?” Help us keep our collections and public programs free and open to all.
A Shakespearean Journey
Step inside the world of William Shakespeare on this journey designed for the ultimate devotee. Your experience begins at the Newberry with a private viewing of Shakespeare’s legendary First Folio, led by curator Jill Gage. Then, raise the curtain on an unforgettable night at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, enjoying complimentary tickets for four (4) to a 2026 season performance in its stunning Navy Pier Home. The journey continues in Washington, D.C., to attend the Opening Night of your choice of Measure for Measure (Sept 27, 2026) or Hamlet (March 14, 2027) at the legendary Folger Shakespeare Library. The opening night performances are supporter-only events, starting with a private tour and concluding with a reception for you and less than 100 others. As part of your visit to D.C., take a tour of the newly transformed Folger galleries and museum complete with an interactive exhibition showcasing eighty-two First Folios. Guests will be personally greeted by a member of Folger Development staff. Guests must provide their own travel and accommodation in D.C.—package arranged in partnership with Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Folger Shakespeare Library.
Includes: Exclusive Shakespearean experiences in Chicago and D.C.
Value: $1,000
Starting Bid: $500
A Culinary Experience: Maxwells Trading
arranged by Robert A. Holland
Enjoy dinner for four at Maxwells Trading, one of Chicago’s buzziest restaurants. The restaurant is led by James Beard “Best Chef: Great Lakes” (2025) finalists Chef-Partner Erling Wu-Bower and Executive Chris Jung; Erling is the son of a Chinese immigrant and a Louisiana native, and Chris was born in Korea and raised in the eastern United States. Together, their menu blends Asian influences with deeply American traditions, reflecting their own cultural experiences and incorporating ingredients grown on the restaurant’s own rooftop farm. Through this unique farm-to-table approach, Maxwells Trading works toward a sustainable system based on collaborative agriculture, composting, and recycling practices.
Includes: Dinner for four (4) at Maxwells Trading
Value: $1,600
Starting Bid: $800
The Ultimate Cubs Day Out
arranged by Ajay and Ramya Shah
Experience the pinnacle of Chicago’s sporting landscape with one epic day at the ballpark. Your party of four will watch the Chicago Cubs from the luxury of a private Wrigley Field suite, along with elevated bites and beverages in the Catalina Club. Avoid the lines at the gate and the congestion on the concourse while enjoying a friendly, upscale atmosphere. Cheer with the crowd as your favorite hometown team brings home the W in style. Game date options include: 4/12, 4/18, 4/20, 5/5, 5/20 or 6/3/2026. Ticket arrangements to be mutually agreed upon with donors, the Shahs.
Includes: Four (4) suite tickets
Value: $1,000
Starting Bid: $500
A Night on the North Shore
arranged by Michael and Christine Pope
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of theatre and dining on the North Shore. This package includes two tickets to a performance at Glencoe’s acclaimed Writers Theatre, a Tony Award-winning company celebrated for intimate productions and powerful storytelling. Make your night one to remember with a delicious meal at Guildhall, a neighborhood favorite known for sophisticated comfort food and creative cocktails. Treat yourself—or someone else—to an unforgettable night of culture, cuisine, and North Shore charm!
Includes: Two (2) tickets to Writers Theatre, and a $100 gift card to Guildhall
Value: $300
Starting Bid: $150
For the Franzen Afficionado
Take home a piece of modern literary history. This package features a personally signed novel by tonight’s honoree, Jonathan Franzen. To add to the experience, visit the Newberry for a private collection presentation of materials related to Franzen's personal and literary inspiration—birding, environmentalism, and Americana at its finest—following in the author's own footsteps. It’s a rare, personal connection to one of the most celebrated voices of our time.
Includes: Personalized signed copy of a Franzen novel, a curated discussion guide, and a collection presentation at the Newberry on a mutually agreeable date.
Value: Priceless
Starting Bid: $100
Oscar Isberian Artisanal Rug
arranged by Oscar Tatosian
Add timeless beauty to your home with this hand‑woven 4×6 wool Oriental rug, generously donated by Oscar Isberian Rugs. This exquisite piece offers exceptional craftsmanship and warmth—an elegant statement and a beautiful addition to any living space.
Includes: (1) 4’x6’ hand-woven rug. No exchanges available.
Value: $1,250
Starting Bid: $250
Support the Newberry
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