Library Exhibit Policy

Proposals

Written proposals are required for groups or individuals interested in using the exhibit cases, and should be submitted via the online forms.

Proposals should describe the theme, content, time and duration of the proposed display. All proposals will be considered to determine which  groups or individuals will be granted permission to use the exhibit cases.

The Exhibit Coordinator reserves the right to defer scheduling use of exhibit cases at particular times to allow for the consideration of different proposals. Ordinarily, exhibit cases will be booked no more than one year in advance. Proposals must be submitted no less than one month prior to the desired schedule, and may be reserved for no more than three months at a time. The completion of the form does not guarantee the reservation of a display case. 

The library reserves the right to reschedule any proposed exhibit if it conflicts with the library's need for the exhibit space. An exhibit may be canceled at any stage if the exhibitors have not met the agreed-upon conditions or deadlines.

Exhibitors are responsible for mounting and removing exhibits on a schedule communicated by Exhibit Coordinator. Exhibits are expected to be research based and informative. Exhibits are expected to avoid editorialization or introducing one’s opinion into the exhibit’s content. An exhibit must adhere to Rod Library and university policies (e.g., see UNI policies 8.05 "Posting of Non-Commercial Signs and Displays" and 13.02 "Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct"). These display cases are not meant to be a platform for proselytization or a display of intentionally inflammatory materials. Displays that are found to be in violation of the University policy, or at the direction of the UNI Office of Compliance and Equity Management or a UNI division head, will be removed.

Freedom of Speech Commitment

Rod Library believes that freedom of speech is the foundation of our schools, communities, and our nation. The library upholds and supports the University’s Freedom of Speech and Expression / First Amendment policy and that “providing a forum for free speech or expression of ideas is a cherished and time-honored feature of university life. Persons must be able to express their ideas in a lawful manner without suppressing the right of freedom of expression of others." 

We believe that providing spaces for students, faculty, and staff to publicly display their research or art is supportive of the university’s goal to create and maintain an inclusive educational environment that prepares students to thrive in a diverse, global environment. The provision of these display spaces is not to endorse the work or the vision, ideas, and opinions. It is to uphold the right of all to experience diverse visions and views. If and when controversies arise from an exhibition, we welcome public discussion and debate with the belief that such discussion is integral to the educational experience. Consistent with our fundamental commitment to freedom of speech, we will not censor exhibitions in response to political or ideological pressure.

Adopted: December 11, 2008

Revised: May 30, 2007; March 22, 2023