The University Library supports the American Library Association’s recommendation for Intellectual Freedom Principles for Academic Libraries, which states that “Freedom of information and of creative expression should be reflected in the library exhibits and in all relevant library policy documents.” The Library is also committed to academic freedom -- no censorship of display materials will be imposed by the Library; however, materials that are judged by the Library’s Display Committee to be defamatory, willfully false, obscene, inciting racial hatred, or discriminatory will not be approved.
All proposals are reviewed by the Library Display Committee (LDC) for coordination and scheduling.
The LDC meets once a month. To ensure timely review, we recommend submitting your proposal at least one month in advance. In some cases, expedited review may be possible within two weeks, depending on committee capacity.
Display space is reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participants are responsible for removing their displays at the end of the scheduled period. If not removed, a member of the LDC may dismantle the display.
Participants will be contacted via email, phone, or mail regarding pickup. Please note: due to limited storage space, unclaimed display items may be disposed of after one month.
Submission does not guarantee approval. Final scheduling decisions rest with the LDC and, when appropriate, may also involve the Belonging, Accessibility, Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (BADIE) Committee and Library administration.
Students (Individual or Group)
Displays are welcome from any officially affiliated Cal Poly Pomona student or student group. Whether you're showcasing research, creative work, or a community-centered theme, we're happy to work with you.
Faculty/Staff
Any Cal Poly Pomona employee may request to host a library display by submitting the online form.
On-Campus Entities
University colleges, departments, units, class-based programs or disciplines, and local community organizations that serve the Cal Poly Pomona population are also welcome to request a display using the online form. Please note that additional documentation or approvals may be required depending on the nature of the request.
Floating or Traveling Exhibits
At this time, the Library is unable to provide funding for exhibits that are not tied to a specific campus group or department. However, we’re happy to explore grant opportunities or other forms of support with you on a case-by-case basis. Please note that additional documentation or approvals may be required depending on the nature of the request.
The LDC reviews each proposal to ensure that displays align with the Library’s educational mission, community values, and available space. While not all criteria may apply to every display, the committee considers the following:
The University Library affirms the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and upholds the Intellectual Freedom Principles for Academic Libraries. All displays must align with the educational mission of the Library and Cal Poly Pomona.
Displays may not include materials that:
Are defamatory, willfully false, obscene, discriminatory, or incite hatred
Promote commercial advertising, political campaigning, fundraising, or solicitation
Suggest endorsement by the Library or the University through their content or presentation
All display locations are often located in high-traffic areas to reduce the risk of damage or theft; however, the University Library assumes no responsibility for the security, loss, or damage of display materials at any time — including during transport, setup, exhibition, or dismantling
Participants must acknowledge and accept this risk prior to installation
If insurance coverage is desired, it is the sole responsibility of the participant or sponsoring organization
To request a display, please complete the Library Display Proposal Form at least one month in advance. Proposals submitted less than a month in advance will still be considered based on committee capacity and scheduling flexibility.
The process includes:
Step 1: Submit your display proposal through the online form.
Step 2: The Library Display Committee (LDC) will review your submission, assess its alignment with Library and University values, and determine scheduling feasibility. *Please consider the LDC meets once a month.
Step 3: If approved, the committee will coordinate with you on next steps, including setup dates, materials drop-off, and documentation needs.
Step 4: All non-Library materials (e.g., personal artwork, signage, props) must be submitted in-person or as a curated document for LDC review prior to installation.
Step 5: You will be responsible for setup and take-down of your display, unless otherwise arranged with LDC.
Important Notes:
The Library reserves first priority for use of all display locations and may adjust scheduled displays for internal Library initiatives.
The Library cannot guarantee the security of materials not owned by the Library and is not responsible for loss or damage.
We recommend avoiding especially valuable or irreplaceable items.
The Library Display Committee (LDC) supports the University Library’s role as a space for curiosity, reflection, and intellectual engagement. Through inclusive displays, the LDC fosters connection with library resources, highlights diverse voices, and aligns with the educational mission of Cal Poly Pomona.
Key responsibilities include:
Reviewing and coordinating display proposals
Maintaining a shared calendar of display themes and locations
Supporting logistics, setup, and documentation
Developing sustainable guidelines and internal workflows
Collaborating with students, staff, faculty, and campus groups
Ensuring displays reflect the Library’s values, ALA principles, and community interests
The LDC will consist of up to 8 members, including one Chair and an optional Co-Chair. Membership is open to library staff and faculty, with terms beginning each October. The committee meets monthly and may hold additional setup sessions as needed.
In addition to core members, ad hoc volunteers from across the Library may contribute to individual displays if a general call for participation is issued. This allows for flexible, project-based involvement while supporting broader engagement.