Exhibition Guidelines
The Library Exhibition Area on Level 2 is a purpose-built exhibition space that is used for displaying items housed in the different collections of the Library; artworks in the University Collection; exhibitions curated and mounted by staff working in the various museums, collections, Schools and Centres at Macquarie University; travelling exhibitions from national and international cultural organisations; and by arrangement with individuals and organisations who have special projects or initiatives that help to promote the Library as a place of learning and scholarship, and that complement the teaching and educational program of the University.
Applications for Exhibitions:
Requests for the use of the exhibition space should be directed, in the first instance, to Mr Robin Walsh, the Library's coordinator of exhibition programmes. He will forward requests to the University Librarian and senior staff of the Library for consideration. Each request should provide brief details regarding the title, theme, and content of the exhibition, as well as an estimate of the type(s) and/or number of objects to be exhibited.
There should be enough detail in the submission for Library staff to be able to make an assessment of the display space required, and whether there are any special considerations or arrangements that need to be taken into account when making the exhibition space available. A detailed inventory is not required at this preliminary stage.
Please note:There are important logistical, financial, insurance, and security implications in mounting any exhibition and the Library reserves the right to refuse permission for those exhibitions that it feels may present difficulties for the users of the Library, may disrupt Library services, or may create security or safety problems for users of the Library or Library staff. Similarly, the Library seeks to maintain a uniformily high standard of presentation in the exhibitions mounted in the exhibition area on Level 2, and reserves the right to refuse permission to those exhibitions that appear to be of an unacceptable quality.
It should also be noted that the Library does not make its exhibition area available to student groups or societies on campus who wish to promote their own activities, or to artists or groups of artists who are simply seeking gallery space to exhibit their works.
Bookings:
Demand for exhibition space varies throughout the year but advance booking is essential. Bookings can be made up to 12 months in advance.
The average exhibition period is 3-4 weeks. Shorter periods are possible, however it should be recognised that the effort involved in mounting an exhibition is always substantially higher than anticipated and that the return on the effort should be commensurate with the highest audience exposure possible.
Exhibition Space:
Exhibition Area = 76.5 sq. metres
Display screens: linear wall length= 42 metres (approx.)
Display screens: wall height = 2.3 metres (approx.)
The exhibition area occupies a total floor space area of 76.5 sq metres. This is divided into two (2) modules of 38.25 sq. metres. Each module can be made into a larger or smaller-shaped area according to the configuration (and angle) chosen for positioning the adjustable display screens. There are four (4) double-sided, moveable display panels (4.58m x 2.30m) and these swivel from a central support column. Each screen moves on a tracking wheel which can then be locked in position. There is also one (1) fixed display board (6.71m x 2.36m).
All display panels are fabric covered, and items may be pinned or stapled to this surface. Please note, however, that the fabric is not suitable for attaching velcro-backed materials. The Library has a limited supply of drawing pins for mounting posters, signs, lettering and labels; though, in general, the provision of these items is the responsibility of the exhibitor.
Gallery tracking is attached to each display screen, and it is suitable for the hanging of framed or mounted works of art. There are adequate supplies of adjustable picture-hanging hooks and nylon line available for exhibitors. Please note that the ceiling panelling above the Exhibition Area is not designed for suspending heavy objects or installations.
Lighting:
There are overhead flourescent lights (separately switched), as well as adjustable spotlights on fixed tracking. The windows in this part of the Library building face in a northerly direction and the amount of natural lighting passing into the Exhibition Area is controlled by the use of vertical fabric blinds.
Display Cases:
There are also 3 moveable glass display cabinets (with built-in flourescent lighting) that can be made available for use if there are valuable or small items (such as books, pamphlets, artefacts, jewellery, pottery, clothing, photographs, etc. ) to be exhibited. These display cases are secure and can be a useful means of presenting additional objects that may enhance the works suspended or attached to the main display boards.
Perspex support stands are available for displaying books and objects. If there are special display needs these should be discussed, in advance, with the Library staff.
Advertising:
Advertising costs are the responsibility of the exhibitor, not the Library. Similarly, the preparation of advertising/publicity, the preparation of exhibition posters, and the distribution of publicity remains the responsibility of the exhibitor, although Library staff may be able to assist with liaison with the University's Public Relations Unit.
Official Openings:
Official Opening ceremonies can be conducted in the exhibition area, however, space is limited and there are considerations to be made concerning the number of guests who can be accommodated in the space, the timing of the event, and ensuring that the event does not disrupt or interfere with the main services and study facilities located on Level 2 of the Library.
Please note that food and drink may not be served in the exhibition area during an Official Opening ceremony. The Library has a function area on Level 5 (with kitchen facilities) that can be made available (at a fee). Booking in advance is essential and enquiries should be directed to the Library Administration Office (9850 7521). All catering costs are to be met by the organiser/exhibitor.
Insurance:
The University indemnifies all items that are exhibited in the Library as part of its general institutional insurance policy. If, however, there are items in an exhibition that require special insurance coverage, Library staff will need to be advised in advance. These items have to be individually itemised and valued, so that separate insurance coverage can be arranged.
Mr Robin Walsh
Exhibitions Co-ordinator
Macquarie University Library
Tel: (02) 9850 7554
Fax: (02) 9850 7513
Email: robin.walsh@library.mq.edu.au