Astoria Public Library Temporary Art Display Policy

(Limited Public Forum)

1. Purpose

The Astoria Public Library may make designated display areas available for temporary exhibits of artwork created by community members, schools, and organizations. The purpose of the program is to support the Library’s educational and cultural mission and to enhance the library environment for patrons of all ages.

Artwork displayed pursuant to this policy is provided by community members and does not constitute endorsement by the Library, its staff, the Library Board, or the governing jurisdiction.

2. Forum Designation

Designated library display spaces used for temporary exhibits are established as a limited public forum.

Consistent with applicable First Amendment law, the Library may impose reasonable and viewpoint-neutral subject-matter restrictions to ensure displays remain consistent with the Library’s mission as a public educational institution serving patrons of all ages.

All artwork must be reviewed and approved by the Library Director or designee prior to display.

3. Eligibility

Applications to display artwork may be submitted by individual artists, schools or educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, community groups, and library patrons.

The Library may require submission of photographs or descriptions of proposed artwork prior to approval.

4. Duration of Displays

Displays are temporary and normally will not exceed three (3) months unless otherwise approved by the Library.

The Library retains discretion over scheduling, location, and number of works displayed.

5. Subject-Matter Limitations

To maintain an environment appropriate for a general-audience public library, the Library will not display artwork that includes:

• Graphic depictions of violence, including injury, gore, or violent criminal activity.
• Sexually explicit imagery, including explicit sexual acts or graphic nudity.
• Election campaign advocacy, including material promoting or opposing a candidate for public office, a political party, or a ballot measure.
• Obscene material as defined under applicable law.
• True threats or unlawful harassment directed at identifiable individuals or groups.

These limitations regulate subject matter only and not the viewpoint expressed within permitted subject matter categories.

6. Installation and Safety

Artists are responsible for delivery, installation, and removal of artwork in accordance with library procedures.

Artwork must not create safety hazards, obstruct access, or damage library property.

7. Removal of Artwork

The Library may remove artwork prior to the end of a display period if:

• The artwork was approved based on incomplete or inaccurate information
• The artwork violates this policy
• Safety or operational concerns arise

8. Liability

The Library assumes no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to artwork displayed on library property.

9. Disclaimer

The Library may post a notice stating:

“Artwork displayed in this space is provided by community members. Display does not imply endorsement by the Library, its staff, or its governing body.”

10. Administrative Review

Questions regarding interpretation or application of this policy shall be determined by the Library Director, whose decision shall be final unless otherwise provided by the Library Board.

Download & print application 

Library Art Display Application