First look inside the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum

The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum reopened on May 23, 2026, following renovations to its galleries. The museum now features a new permanent exhibition titled "Story of Comics," a dedicated gallery showcasing original "Calvin & Hobbes" artwork by Bill Watterson, and an exclusive U.S. presentation of work by Chris Ware. The reopening was previewed by Ohio State Newark dean and director Matthew Smith, a comic book scholar, during a tour with curator Jenny Robb on May 20, 2026.