Purpose

This policy defines the nature of the UCSB Library's exhibitions and the procedures governing these exhibitions.

Scope

The UCSB Library Exhibitions Program sponsors a rotating roster of exhibitions in the UCSB Library that showcase Library collections, present campus research and creative works, and/or enhance the cultural and intellectual life of the University and the larger community. In particular, the UCSB Library is committed to presenting high-quality exhibitions that contribute to the University's teaching, learning, and research mission. Preference is given to exhibitions that connect to the UCSB curriculum, faculty and student research, campus organizations and events, and/or current events.

Proposal Process

The UCSB Library is pleased to consider exhibition proposals from UCSB students, faculty, employees, and others. Proposals from UCSB students must include a faculty or staff member as a sponsor.

To propose an exhibition, please use the Library's exhibition proposal form. You can expect a response to your proposal within 30 days.  

Most exhibitions are planned at least one year in advance. Proposals for exhibitions sooner than this will be considered based on resource capacity.

Please see our “Resources for Curators Guide” to understand the expectations for curators of Library exhibitions, as well as the responsibilities of Library staff in supporting exhibitions: https://guides.library.ucsb.edu/exhibits/roles 

Exhibition Locations

Most exhibition locations can accommodate wall-mounted materials and display cases. Exhibitions must fit into the display cases and wall spaces provided. The Library does not have the ability to display larger sculptural materials or multi-media exhibitions. 

The following areas are the current and approved exhibition locations in the UCSB Library:

  • Ocean Gallery (1st Floor Ocean Side)
  • Mountain Gallery (1st Floor Mountain Side)
  • Art & Architecture Gallery (1st Floor Mountain Side) - currently closed; will reopen in Fall 2024
  • Learning Commons (1st Floor Mountain Side) - this gallery is intended to showcase UCSB student work
  • Ethnic & Gender Studies (2nd Floor Ocean Side) - this gallery can accommodate up to two display cases. Proposals are encouraged for short-term displays (approx. one month) that highlight and  engage with diverse cultures
  • Special Research Collections (3rd Floor Mountain Side) - this gallery exclusively displays holdings from the Library’s rare and unique collections

Exhibition Content

  • Exhibitions are selected based on the following criteria (not all exhibitions will meet all criteria):
    • Breadth of appeal
    • Educational content
    • Timeliness to current and campus events
    • Relation of materials to the campus and wider community
    • Contributes to the diversity of the Exhibitions Program and reflects the diversity of UCSB research, teaching, and learning
    • Opportunity for presentation of companion public programming
    • Scheduling constraints. Proposed exhibitions must fit into the Library planning calendar
    • Reinforcement of the Library’s strategic and development goals
    • Quality and aesthetic value
    • Thematic narrative
  • All exhibitions are temporary. Exhibitions will typically remain on view for two quarters. Special Research Collections exhibitions typically remain on view for three quarters. Displays in Ethnic & Gender Studies can be for short-term durations (approx. one month).
  • Exhibitions are curated by Library employees or in cooperation with faculty, students, campus groups, or guest curators.
  • The Library is committed to presenting diverse points of view and to the principles of academic freedom.
  • The Library’s primary purpose is to provide our users with access to collections and services. Exhibitions may not disrupt or harm the facility, collections, or services or compromise the privacy of employees and users.

Exhibition Security

  • The Library does not provide any special security in its exhibition areas. Special Research Collections is the only gallery location that is staffed at all times that the room is open to the public. Display cases in all Library galleries are secured with locks.
  • Materials on loan are displayed at the risk of the lending party. The Library does not provide any insurance for materials while in transit or on display, or assume any responsibility for the loss, theft of, or damage to any materials on exhibition. Artists who loan original work for exhibit in the Library may be required to sign a loan agreement.

Exhibition Funding

  • The Library has a small budget to support exhibition costs such as reproduction, installation, and supplies.
  • The Library may ask guest curators to contribute funds beyond what it can support. 

Exhibition Events

  • Occasionally, the Library will host public receptions, talks, or other events associated with Library exhibitions.
  • The Library Exhibitions and Events Manager approves all Library public events.

Contact

If you have questions about the UCSB Library Exhibitions Program, please email library-outreach@ucsb.edu

Objection to exhibition content may be submitted to the Associate University Librarian for Learning & Engagement at rmetzger@ucsb.edu 

 

Updated 10/31/24