Library Art Exhibits Policy

This policy applies to the exhibit spaces at the Ronald Williams Library (Main Library) only.

The NEIU Libraries hold free expression as a central value. As stated in the , "libraries are forums for information and ideas," and "libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment." 
The Libraries neither endorse nor censor work of faculty or student artists, with the sole exception being work that is illegal or unsafe.

All exhibits are subject to Library Administration approval and must support the academic pursuits of NEIU students and staff or promote university values of Integrity, Excellence, Access to Opportunity, Diversity, Community, and Empowerment Through Learning.

Gallery Spaces

Gallery A: Located across from the elevators on the Library's 1st floor

  • Two walls: 8.5' and 24' with 9.5' ceiling
  • Accommodates 2D and 3D artwork

Gallery B: Above lounge chairs in café seating area

  • Two sections: 6' and 12.5'
  • 2D artwork only
  • Priority given to university-sponsored exhibits

Exhibition Policies

For Students

  • Senior Art Shows receive first priority in Gallery A during end-of-semester periods (mid-November/December and mid-April/May)
  • Students should complete the NEIU Libraries’ 
  • Maximum exhibition period: two weeks
  • Gallery B may be requested in addition to Gallery A, subject to availability

For All Other Exhibitors

  • Submit requests using the NEIU Libraries’  at least one month in advance
  • Include: desired dates, type of artwork, space preference, and reception plans
  • External exhibits must complete an NEIU Libraries Exhibition Contract listing all works and their estimated values
  • Maximum of two weeks per month allocated for university-sponsored events in Gallery B
     

Installation Guidelines

What We Provide

  • 6' aluminum ladder
  • Sticky-tack for labels
  • Various display pedestals
         ○ 2 (15"x15"x42") with optional acrylic protective covers
         ○ 3 (15"x15"x42")
         ○ 1 (18”x18”x42”)   
         ○ 1 (12”x12”x40”)  
         ○ 1 (14”x14”x30”)  
         ○ 3 (9”x9”x21”)
  • Metal hanging rods and hooks, for track system
         ○ 24” long (21 available)
         ○ 48” long (36 available)
         ○ 60” long (28 available)
  • Clear flexible hangers (72” long with adjustable metal hooks), for track hanging system
  • Two 4'x6' tables with optional plexiglass covers
  • Multimedia display desk with CPU, 43” monitor, wireless keyboard/mouse

Installation Requirements

  • 2D work: Use hanging rod system and/or sticky-tack only. No nails, screws, or Command Strip hooks
  • Weight limits: Maximum 70 lbs per rod, 300 lbs total per track
  • Floor displays: Cannot extend more than 8 feet from main wall or beyond gallery boundaries,
  • Ceiling grid: Displays or support wires suspended from ceiling grid are not permitted
  • Signage: Artwork cannot cover library signs (exits, elevators, etc.)
  • Lettering: Static cling or removable adhesive only—must be completely removed after exhibit
  • Light fixtures: No lighting fixture may be moved from one track to another. Each track is supporting its maximum electrical capacity; adding another lighting fixture to any track will damage the entire lighting system

Coordination Required

Contact the Library Admin Office (773-442-4460) to:

  • Schedule a time on installation/removal dates
  • Request ladder access or pedestals
  • Arrange for use of plexiglass table covers
  • Confirm any special requirements

Installation assistance available 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday only.

Guest Parking

Event or reception organizers are responsible for arranging/coordinating parking details for their guests. Contact Campus Security (773-742-4100) or Parking Services (773-442-4104 or park@neiu.edu). See /about/parking-services/visitors-and-vendors

Receptions & Events

Scheduling

  • Submit requests at least one month in advance
  • Receptions: 3-5:30pm, Monday-Friday (library open days only)
  • Saturday events require special arrangements with Library Administration
  • One reception permitted per exhibit

Event Guidelines

  • Location: Confined to designated café and gallery space (first floor)
  • Music: Soft background music only (conversation level)
  • Alcohol: Requires contracted, licensed bartender per university policy
  • Food service: Limited to café counter area—coordinate with library in advance

Furniture & Equipment

  • Available for rent: Eight folding cocktail tables ($10 each) and navy table covers ($5 each) paid via donation to Office of Institutional Advancement
  • Café seating area furniture: Cannot be removed from space
  • Cafe counter area furniture: May be relocated to accommodate refreshments, but must be returned at event conclusion.
  • Lounge chairs: Cannot be moved without library consent
  • Storage: Lockable cooler available for cold refreshments

Event Responsibilities

  • Cleanup: All trash in provided receptacles; Friday/Saturday events must remove waste from premises
  • Parking: Coordinate guest parking with Campus Security (773-742-4100) or Parking Services (773-442-4104 or park@neiu.edu) See /about/parking-services/visitors-and-vendors
  • Setup/breakdown: All materials must be removed from premises after exhibition

Safety & Liability

Prohibited Materials

Artwork containing the following is not permitted:

  • Bodily fluids, live animals, untreated hides
  • Alcohol, narcotics, controlled substances, weapons
  • Open flames, flammable or hazardous materials
  • Water/liquids in open containers

Insurance & Responsibility

  • University carries insurance for exhibited art objects
  • Complete NEIU Libraries Exhibition Contract
  • Library makes every effort to protect displayed materials but cannot assume responsibility for damage, theft, or loss
  • Exhibitors responsible for all personal materials and equipment
  • Library reserves the right to make additional restrictions as needed

Contact Information

For exhibit requests and general questions:

  • Bonnie Pfeiffelman, Library Admin Office
  • Phone: 773-442-4460
  • Email: b-pfeiffelman@neiu.edu

For policy questions:

  • Phone: 773-442-4470
  • Email: NEIU-Libraries@neiu.edu

For parking arrangements:

  • Campus Security: 773-742-4100
  • Parking Services: 773-442-4104 or park@neiu.edu

 

Gallery or Cafe space requests cannot be made through the university's 25Live system. Complete the online space request form or contact the Library Admin Office directly.

Policy Updated August 2025