Exhibition Policy

The University Libraries curate exhibitions that support the educational, cultural, and research mission of the University at Buffalo. Exhibitions draw upon library collections, services, programs, and areas of academic strength, showcasing the unique resources and expertise of the Libraries.

Exhibition Planning and Scheduling

The University Libraries maintain an exhibition calendar that is planned at least one year in advance. This long-range scheduling process supports the thoughtful development, design, production, and installation of exhibitions across library spaces.

Exhibitions are based on available space, staffing capacity, and alignment with the Libraries’ mission and priorities.

Exhibition Scope and Eligibility

The University Libraries determine the content presented within their exhibition spaces. Exhibitions are selected and curated by the Libraries and generally focus on library collections, scholarship, research, and topics that support teaching, learning, and public engagement.

The University Libraries do not maintain public forum exhibition spaces and do not offer exhibition space for independent use, rental, or display by outside organizations or individuals.

Examples of exhibitions include, but are not limited to:

  • Exhibitions featuring materials from Special Collections, distinctive collections, or other resources held by the University Libraries.
  • Displays highlighting the Libraries’ role in supporting teaching, learning, research, information literacy, and access to information.
  • Displays that contextualize topics of institutional, historical, or scholarly significance through the lens of library collections and resources.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The University Libraries may collaborate with academic departments, campus units, and external organizations to develop exhibitions when the proposed content aligns with the Libraries’ mission and exhibition goals.

Collaborative exhibitions are considered on a case-by-case basis. While partners may contribute expertise, materials, and programming, final decisions regarding exhibition content, scheduling, design, production, and installation remain the responsibility of the University Libraries.

Design and Production

University Libraries Communications oversees the design and production of print and digital materials associated with exhibitions and displays in public-facing library spaces.

To ensure consistency in quality, accessibility, and brand standards, all exhibition graphics and interpretive materials must be reviewed and approved through established University Libraries processes.

Exhibition materials will be developed with consideration for accessibility standards and the needs of diverse audiences.

Exhibition Locations

Exhibitions may be presented in the following University Libraries spaces:

  • Silverman Gallery, 3rd floor of Oscar A. Silverman Library
  • Special Collections Gallery, 420 Capen Hall

Additional exhibition and display locations may be designated by the University Libraries as needed.

Authority and Administration

Exhibitions may be presented in the following University Libraries spaces:

  • Silverman Gallery, 3rd floor of Oscar A. Silverman Library
  • Special Collections Gallery, 420 Capen Hall

Additional exhibition and display locations may be designated by the University Libraries as needed.

The University Libraries reserve the right to determine whether proposed exhibitions align with this policy and the Libraries' mission. The Libraries establish exhibition schedules, production timelines, installation requirements, and display durations based on operational needs and available resources. Final approval of exhibitions rests with the Vice Provost for University Libraries or their designee.