[Publib] Finding Exhibits for Display Cases

[Conrad Rader]

In my experience, "objects d'arte" usually are in the eye of the beholder.
Some of the coolest displays I have seen have been from collections that I
never realized people were interested in.

I would recommend that you not use the phrase "object d'arte" in your
promotional material but rather come up with a set of guidelines that
reflect what is expected to be displayed.  Try using "original works", "hand
crafted", "folk art", "unique items" or similar terms.  For a short term
fix, try and locate a local artist directly and offer the display space.  Do
the hard sell rather than waiting for them to come to you.  Offer to
highlight other programming around the display.

If your new case has different size requirements, be sure to let people know
what can be accommodated.  How long will the display be up for?

If the "objects d'arte" is the only guideline you got from the director, you
need to get a clarification.  Why the change in focus?  Is there a general
feelings that no 'tacky' displays are allowed to bring down the overall
newness?  If people who have displayed with you before are not responding,
then you have a PR problem on top of the lack of other respondents.

Conrad Rader
Adult Services Librarian
Niles District Library
Niles, MI 49120
 
www.nileslibrary.com
contactndl at gmail.com
269-683-8545 x 3313



-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org [mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org]
On Behalf Of Pamela Curchin
Sent: Thursday, July 06, 2006 10:27 AM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] Finding Exhibits for Display Cases

Hi All!

Within the last two years my library has been transformed by an 8.5 million
dollar expansion and renovation.  We had two basic cases which have always
been my responsibility.  With the renovation we have one really huge case
which is not in the best location, but is built into the building so it
can't be moved.  My director wants only "objects d'arte"
instead of the types of community displays, personal talents/collections
which we always featured. 
Extensive publicity has been sent to local media, our newsletter, a blog on
our website, etc., but not one person has responded to our request for
exhibitors.  I feel that "normal patrons" have been frightened off by the
phrase "object d'arte", but am not able to change what is expected by my
director.  Any thougts or ideas to attract local talents?

Thanks!!

             Pam Curchin
             Middletown Twp. P.L.  


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