There is an extensive exhibition programme in libraries in Shropshire. Individuals and groups are invited to participate in presenting their own exhibitions of various types, provided that certain conditions are met. You can display and sell paintings, drawings and craftwork as well as publicising and giving information about your society or organisation.

Scope

Examples of exhibitions held in libraries include arts and crafts of all kinds and informative displays covering topics of interest to the community. Items may only be offered for sale with the approval of the librarian, and this facility is normally limited to art and craftwork that is the exhibitor’s own work.

Presentation

A good standard of presentation is expected of all displays and exhibitions. In the preliminary stages of planning an exhibition, it may be helpful if you show examples of the type of material that you wish to display to the librarian, who may then be able to advise you on the best use that can be made of the facilities.

Exhibitor’s responsibilities

You will be responsible for the mounting and dismantling of the material used in the exhibition. Normally this will be done during library opening hours on agreed dates. Every possible care will be taken with your property but the council can accept no responsibility for loss of, or damage to, any items left on the premises. The council’s insurance provides basic fire cover only.
You will need to provide a copy of your own Public Liability Insurance (PLI) documents showing cover up to £5 million. If you do not have your own insurance you may buy into the Council’s PLI by paying 12% of the hire charge. Please ask staff for details.

Please make your own identity clear on the display, either as an individual or as a group. This may take the form of a notice with a name and address where further enquiries may be directed. Displays or leaflets that support local petitions, single issue campaigns or lobby groups are not permitted.

Sales of arts and crafts

Artists and other individuals may offer their own work for sale during the course of an exhibition. You should place an identifying label (including the price) on each work, and provide at least two copies of a list of all the items in the exhibition, whether for sale or not, for the benefit of the public and the library staff. The library will collect all payments from customers on your behalf, and will retain a commission of 20% of sales. Items sold will usually remain on display until the exhibition has ended.

Booking

Please contact the library and discuss your requirements with a librarian and complete an application form. Exhibitions are usually limited to a run of between three and four weeks, and can be viewed only during normal library opening hours. Exhibitors may stage only one display per library in a twelve month period.