Exhibits and displays are an important part of a vibrant campus library. The UNH Library defines an exhibit as a curated presentation of materials that come together as a unified work. The UNH Library defines a display as a more informal collection of information, books, or other resources highlighted for educational or informational purposes.
The University of New Hampshire Library welcomes proposals from guest curators (e.g., faculty, students, staff) to produce exhibits and displays in library spaces. All exhibits and displays should reflect the library’s mission, programs and/or collections and academically oriented student events and programs on campus. These may be in conjunction with programming by one of our UNH partners or reflect a topic of concern or interest to the community. We look for timely, creative, and dynamic exhibits and displays that promote a safe, welcoming and respectful environment with an emphasis on intellectual growth, inclusivity, sustainability and social responsibility and are particularly interested in exhibits and displays that promote New Hampshire history and culture. The UNH Library encourages guest curators to publicize their exhibits and displays through a variety of public channels; the UNH Library will post your promotional materials in the library and repost on social media.
When selecting exhibits and displays, we strive to cover a broad range of subject matter that will engage the interests of our community and demonstrate various library services. Book displays must include various types of materials in both print and electronic formats. We will consider book purchases for displays and, in keeping with our e-preferred collection policy, will purchase print books only if a title is not available in electronic format. If you need assistance identifying resources to include with an exhibit, please reach out to the appropriate subject specialist librarian.
Applicants may propose an exhibit or display by filling out the online exhibit/display application form, which should be submitted at least two weeks in advance of the requested start date. The Associate Dean and Assistant Dean will review the request and share their decision within five working days of the receipt of the application. If you wish to host an event associated with a curated exhibit or display, more information and a link to the application form can be found on our website. If you have questions about a possible exhibit or our policy, please reach out to library.comments@unh.edu.
There are several exhibit locations within Dimond Library and Library employees will work with guest curators to determine the best location for the exhibit/display. Branch libraries do not currently offer exhibit space. The UNH Library is not responsible for the security of exhibits and displays and reserves the right to remove, or request that exhibitors remove an exhibit or display prior to its end date for any reason.
The Library's Program Lead for Communication and Outreach is responsible for monitoring and updating this policy as needed. Questions about this policy can be sent to ask@unh.libanswers.com.
Updated by: K. Sweetman: 11/22
Reviewed by the UNH Library Faculty: 11/22
Approved by the Dean of the UNH Library: 1/23
