Exhibit, Display, and Art Policy

Policy Goals

The Superior Public Library Art Policy establishes guidelines for developing displays and collections that support the library’s mission. The library’s goal is to present exhibits and artwork reflecting diverse perspectives and interests. Specific displays may include items that may be unconventional, unpopular, or controversial. Including a work in a display does not mean the library endorses its content or viewpoint; it simply provides access to a broad range of artistic and cultural expression. The library upholds the principles of intellectual freedom, adopted by the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read and View Statements.

Exhibit and Art Program Mission

Superior Public Library seeks to enrich patron experiences by:

  • Enhancing community appreciation of the arts.
  • Showcasing works of artistic, educational, or historical significance.
  • Offering opportunities to engage with original works and build visual literacy.
  • Supporting local and regional artists while welcoming national and international contributors.

Temporary Displays

Exhibits must align with the library’s mission. The library reserves the right to prioritize its own display needs. The Library Manager of Programs and Partnerships, under the Library Director’s guidance, selects temporary displays based on suitability and space. Applications are reviewed year-round. Display areas may be booked out over a year in advance. Final decisions are made by the Library Director. The library is not responsible for any items that are lost, damaged, or stolen while on exhibit or display.

Available exhibit spaces include:

  • Meeting Room commons showcase
  • Entrance vestibule showcase
  • Site- or event-specific areas (e.g. “Love Your Local Artist” event)

Exhibit duration varies by space and demand. We remind potential artists that many members of the public, including children and families, use Superior Public Library; the Library Director reserves the right to determine what work is appropriate for each space.

Selection Criteria

Items are evaluated on factors such as:

  • Artistic merit
  • Contemporary relevance or lasting value
  • Artist’s reputation or potential
  • Critical recognition
  • Public interest
  • Timeliness
  • Relation to existing collections and exhibits
  • Originality or alternative viewpoints
  • Authenticity of historical, regional or cultural context

Gifts of Artwork

The Library Board, with the Library Director, reviews proposed gifts or purchases for suitability.

Artwork should:

  • Demonstrate high artistic merit and originality.
  • Be compatible with the library’s character.
  • Artwork must be durable, safe, and maintainable (exceptions allowed for time-based or temporary works).

Recognition for donors will be consistent with library standards. Display of accepted items is at the library’s discretion. There is no obligation for display.

Deaccessioning

The library may remove exhibits and artwork if deemed in its best interest.

Request for Removal of Displays and Artwork

Patrons may request reconsideration of displayed works by completing the Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form, available at the Library Service Desk. The Library Director will review and respond in writing. Appeals may be made to the Library Board, which will evaluate compliance with this policy.

Approved by the Library Board on 12/10/2025. Previous version: 2/13/2019.