1964
The Folger marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's birth with three major exhibitions, several small traveling exhibitions and loans, lectures on Shakespeare's life and work, an Elizabethan dinner, and a reception at the White House hosted by President and Mrs. Lyndon Johnson.
1968
Louis B. Wright retires. Philip A. Knachel, a French Renaissance scholar, becomes acting director.
1969
O. B. Hardison Jr., professor of English at the University of North Carolina, appointed director.
1970
Formation of the Folger Institute, a joint venture of the Folger and a university consortium to promote Renaissance and eighteenth-century studies through seminars and symposia. The consortium begins with two institutions, American and George Washington Universities, soon joined by the University of Maryland. By the institute's fortieth anniversary, the consortium has more than 40 members.
The Folger launches its series of modern poetry readings, starting with poet and Shakespeare scholar Paul Ramsey.
Elizabethan Theatre brought into compliance with District of Columbia fire-safety laws governing public theaters that charge admission. The Folger Theatre Group forms; its first production, Dionysus Wants You!, is a rock-musical adaptation of The Bacchae.
First volunteer docents complete a four-session training course. The docent program, begun as a way to provide tours and lectures for visitors, later expands to include helping with the annual Shakespeare's Birthday Open House and education programs, as well as other projects.
1971
Friends of the Folger formed to encourage individual giving as a supplement to the endowment.
First Folger Institute seminars held. Topics include Renaissance musicology, intellectual history, and the world of Erasmus.
Folger Theatre Group performs its first play by Shakespeare, Twelfth Night.
