Traveling Trunks is a new middle-school resource-lending program from the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. These multimedia library kits are packed full of resources from across the Smithsonian Institution that deliver immersive experiences.

1. Once upon a time, in a small, sleepy village nestled deep within a lush valley, there lived
a young woman named Elea. She had always dreamt of traveling to far-off lands,
exploring new cultures, and experiencing the world beyond the confines of her peaceful
village. Her heart was filled with wanderlust, and her spirit longed for adventure.
One sunny morning, Elea visited the local antique store, a place she often frequented,
where she would lose herself amidst the old books, dusty relics, and curious trinkets. As
she browsed through the cluttered shelves, an ancient-looking map caught her eye. It
was unlike any map she had ever seen, adorned with intricate illustrations of fantastical
creatures and mysterious symbols. The map seemed to beckon her, as if whispering
secrets of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered.
The shopkeeper, a wise old man named Mr. Thistledown, noticed Elea’s interest and
approached her. He told her the map was said to be enchanted, created by a long-
forgotten cartographer who had traveled the world seeking its most magical and
mysterious places. He warned her that the map was rumored to be cursed, as the
cartographer himself had mysteriously disappeared during his final journey, never to
return.
Elara, fueled by her adventurous spirit, decided to purchase the map despite the
warnings. She thanked Mr. Thistledown and left the shop with the map securely tucked
under her arm. As she stepped into the village square, she couldn't help but wonder if
the enchantment of the map was real or just a tale to add intrigue.
That night, Elara spread the map out on her small wooden table, illuminated by the soft
glow of candlelight. She traced her fingers over its intricate lines, mesmerized by the
mysterious symbols and fantastical creatures depicted on its surface. Elara felt a deep
connection with the map and decided that she had to embark on the journey it
promised.