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Ohio’s Libraries Showcase Public Art


Many Ohio libraries showcase works of art as a way of contributing to the cultural enrichment of their communities or campuses.  In some cases, the art highlights the work of students or other local artists, such as the student artwork displayed by the University of Dayton Libraries.  In other cases, libraries purchase artwork for permanent display within the library.  This was the case with the Medina County District Library, where pieces were selected to “complement the unique design and feel” of each of the library’s facilities.  Some libraries coordinate exhibits of works such as posters and photographs that are part of their collections.

I have had the opportunity to view a number of art exhibits as I have visited libraries around the state.  Last month I visited the Main Library of the Akron-Summit County Public Library (ASCPL), which features several works by Akron area artists including Don Drumm and Sr. Evangeline Doyle.  ASCPL has published articulation:  The Art of the Akron-Summit County Public Library as a guide to the public art on display throughout the Main Library.  I also recently had the opportunity to visit the Main Library of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, where the library was exhibiting several items from its collection of theatre and circus posters, calendar cards, and other materials produced by the Cincinnati-based Strobridge Lithographing Company.  Some images from this exhibit can be viewed on the State Library’s web site.

This issue of The News takes a look at just a few of the art exhibits being hosted by Ohio’s libraries, including two unique undertakings by libraries in correctional institutions.  The works on library walls and in library display cases are often as engaging as the books and other materials found on library shelves!

Beverly Cain
State Librarian of Ohio

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