Policy

Display cases and exhibit areas are used for Library-sponsored displays. Library-sponsored is defined as having been created by Library personnel or by community sources in cooperation with Library personnel. If display cases or exhibit areas are not being used by the Library, they may be made available for use by the public on equal terms, regardless of the individual's or group's beliefs or affiliations. Use of space for certain displays/exhibits does not constitute an endorsement of the organization's beliefs by the Library.

Rationale

Public libraries have traditionally encouraged and provided opportunities for free expression and free access to ideas for members of their communities by presenting points of view on subjects through various formats. In accordance with the Library's role as a limited public forum, displays/exhibits are presented with an intent to inform the public of the wide range of issues, events and interests within the community.

Application

Library use of display/exhibition space takes precedence over use by other groups or individuals.

Displays/exhibits shall be informational, educational, cultural or historical and are coordinated by designated Library staff at each Branch Library and Central Library.

Displays/exhibitions are considered for presentation based on the following criteria:

1. Relevance to broad-based and diverse community needs and usefulness to a general audience
2. Timeliness
3. Originality of content or approach
4. Relationship to Library collections
5. Available space.

If staff are uncertain as to whether a display meets the expressed criteria , concerns should be referred to the Central Library or Community Services Director and, if necessary, to the Deputy Library Director or the Director of Libraries.

Use of display/exhibit space may be denied or cancelled if any Library regulation or applicable law is violated.

Procedure

1. At the Central Library, Collins Gallery exhibits are scheduled through the Central Library Events Coordinator.
2. In the Branch Libraries, displays/exhibits are scheduled through Branch Library staff.
3. The starting and ending dates of the display/exhibit will be agreed upon before installation.
4. The exhibitor is responsible for installing and dismantling the display or exhibit.
5. The organization or source of the display or exhibit must be identified with the display and in all publicity.

Collins Gallery Exhibition Guidelines

1. Collins Gallery exhibits are usually planned several months in advance.
2. We are always seeking to host exhibits that are visually exciting and support the library's priorities. We strive to enhance library service by representing a broad range of cultural, ethnic, linguistic, and economic backgrounds.
3. An interest form for use of the Multnomah County Library Collins Gallery must be completed and submitted to the Collins Gallery Librarian. 
4. Exhibit set-up is the responsibility of the exhibitor and must be arranged with the Collins Gallery Librarian, who will assist the exhibitor in accessing the building, providing common supplies and tools, etc. 
5. Due to staff limitations and county regulations, the cases in the Collins Gallery cannot be moved to accommodate each exhibit. Nothing can be hung on the walls or placed outside the exhibit cases.
6. It is recommended that the exhibiting organization have an opening reception only if there is a reasonable expectation of good attendance from the sponsoring organization.
7. All publicity and promotion of exhibits in the Collins Gallery must be coordinated with the Collins Gallery Librarian. This includes printed promotional materials, news releases and media contact. The Public Relations office has a system in place for publicity and, within the confines of the budget allotted for this purpose, will work with the exhibit on a publicity plan.
8. Postcards for Collins Gallery events are printed by the Library and are available to groups who wish to do their own mailings.