Objective
Anythink’s Art Policy provides a framework for art commissions, displays and events.
Anythink seeks to feature art that reflects viewpoints across a broad spectrum of subject matter and opinion that is suitable for a variety of interests.
Anythink adheres to the principles of intellectual freedom, adopted by the American Library Association, as expressed in the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read, Freedom to View, and Anythink’s DEI Mission Statements.
Goals of Art Programs and Exhibits
- To provide experiences and connections to cultural and artistic activities
- To encourage educational, intellectual, aesthetic and creative growth with a wide range of art, unique programs and exhibits
- To reach non-traditional library customers
- To provide exposure to different types of arts and artists
Displays/Exhibits
Anythink offers several locations for exhibiting art. Art display options vary by branch library.
Anythink reserves the right to use its display areas at any time for its own display needs; therefore, library programs, displays, exhibits and partnerships take priority over other requests.
Projects/Events and/or Branch staff, under the direction of the Executive Director, are responsible for installing and coordinating art displays or exhibitions.
At times, Anythink may conduct a public call for applications from artists to display or exhibit their work. Display venues, themes, and selection criteria will be included in the call for applications. The Executive Director, or their designee, will have final authority over the selection of art for these displays and exhibitions.
The presence of a particular display/artwork in the library does not indicate that Anythink endorses the viewpoints of individual artists, exhibitors, or messages of the art in the display/exhibition.
Prior to displaying, all exhibitors must sign a Waiver of Responsibility form that releases the library from any responsibility for loss or damage to items displayed at a library.
All exhibits are free, open to the public and accessible during the library’s operating hours.
The right to remove items, or cancel an exhibit, is at the discretion of the Executive Director, or their designee.
Criteria for Selection
Criteria for selecting artists for displays/exhibits at Anythink is established in consultation with the Planning Committee for each project.
General criteria for all projects may include, but is not limited to, the following:
- Specific show or initiative theme/objectives
- Overall coherence, clarity, and visual impact of the work
- Innovation
- Emotional impact
- Accessibility to a broad audience
- Cultural integrity or relevance
- Lived experience in and/or knowledge of local or depicted culture
- Community engagement and representation components
- Demonstrated professional accomplishment or recognized potential of an artist
Additional context specific criteria may be added to individual projects. An item need not meet all of the criteria in order to be selected. The selection process may vary based on the needs/goals of the project.
Commissioned Art
Anythink may commission artwork for a specific initiative, program, site or celebration.
Commissioned artworks will include specific project criteria, a timeline and budget. The plan will specify the duration of the installation (permanent or temporary).
If the installation is not permanent, Anythink will work with the artist to develop a plan for the disposition of the art.
De-Acquisition of Art
Anythink retains the right to de-acquisition any artwork.
Compliance with the terms and conditions for Commissioned Art and Criteria for Selection are reviewed when art is de-acquisitioned.
De-acquisitions are reviewed and finalized by the Executive Director or their designee.
Art Sales at Programs and Events
The terms and conditions of the sale of art at Anythink programs or events requires prior approval from the Executive Director or their designee.
Request for Removal of Artwork
Anythink welcomes feedback from its customers concerning art displayed at the library.
Requests to remove art displays or exhibitions will be considered in accordance with Anythink’s Request for Reconsideration Policy, which can be accessed here: https://www.anythinklibraries.org/page/request-reconsideration-library-resources-policy