The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library presents displays that support the library mission and collections. Displays are defined as smaller or less formal groups of items than would be proposed for an exhibit in the art gallery. Library displays provide access, increase understanding and familiarity with cultural and informational resources. Displays encourage the role of the library as a community gathering place. Displays may be by invitation of the Library, created by non-library groups or individuals. Submit displays according to the display guidelines. Proposals will be reviewed by library staff. Displays selected may be shown in areas of the Library as defined and scheduled by library staff. Library and/or gallery staff arranges and installs the objects.

Display selection criteria | Major considerations

• Importance/relevance to the Library’s collections, programs, educational experience and the community
• Variety of objects and themes
• Condition, size, weight or fragility of the objects proposed for display
• Cost (if any) to produce the display
• Preservation of the Library’s mission to encourage cultural activity and promote lifelong learning

Library display guidelines | Submitting a proposal

Special Collections staff will review applications on a quarterly basis. Displays can be in cases, vitrines, or gallery cases placed in various areas of the library. Applications must be submitted at least six months prior to the date of the display. One display per group or individual is allowed every twelve months. Library displays have precedence. The Library reserves the right to decline, reschedule or postpone displays. All descriptive information must be submitted in electronic format. All library displays must have a library staff liaison. The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library does not automatically provide promotional materials or public relations services for displays. All public relations must be approved by the Public Relations Manager. A temporary loan agreement form must be filled out for EVERY item on display. The form will provide:

• identifying information about the item
• a fair market insurance value of the item
• information on the condition of the item prior to display

Library staff will install all display materials. The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library’s insurance policy covers materials on display for the fair market value on the temporary loan agreement form. Click here to get form.