A teeming diversity of life is one of the key distinguishing characteristics of the Pale Blue Dot--planet Earth--in our solar system. And yet this feature is under grave threat. Biologists are raising the alarm about accelerating rates of decline in the plant and animal species of our world, with alarming implications also for the long term health and well-being of human communities. The main cause of this loss: the impacts of human activity. But if people are the main drivers of biodiversity decline in our current age, it is also in our power to change the trend. Featuring illustrations from historical studies of our natural world found in Cornell Unversity Library's collections, this exhibit reflects on the looming possibility of a “Sixth Extinction” on Earth. We identify some of the key factors behind the decline of animal species in the 21st century. And we highlight a few of the emerging research insights and conservation efforts that make a strong case for an empowering conviction shared by more than a few--that preserving the life-sustaining diversity of our beautiful planet for future generations is a goal well within our grasp.

"Going to Gone" is part of Mann Library's spring 2026 exhibit program that will also feature:

• Last Call: Bird Decline and the Threat of Extinction, a collaboration between the MacAulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Cornell Museum of Vertebrates and Mann Library, Mann Library Gallery (Mann Library, 2nd floor) 
• Keeping Birds Common: Birds and Habitat at Cornell Botanic Gardens and Beyond, an exhibit of photography by Marie Read in collaboration with Cornell Botanic Gardens and Mann Library, Top Shelf Gallery (Mann Library, 1st floor) 

An opening celebration for the exhibit program will take place on Thursday, April 16. Jordan Boersma (Cornell Lab of Ornithology) will present the lecture "Finding Hope in the Search for Lost Birds" at 4:00 p.m. in Mann Room 160. A reception will follow at 5:00 p.m. in the Mann Library Gallery.  All are welcome!

This program is part of a series of exhibits titled From the Brink: Contributions to a Sustainable Future from across Cornell, hosted by different libraries across Cornell University Library in partnership with other departments and groups on campus.

From the Brink showcases collections, research support, and collaborative efforts across Cornell and illuminates ways of addressing issues of critical, global importance. This series of exhibits aims to stimulate conversations about the threat of environmental and cultural loss and its implications, while also offering insights about positive developments and constructive steps toward a healthier future for our planet and our communities.