Library Exhibits and Displays

Library-initiated displays promote the discovery of library resources and increase awareness of programs, services, events, collections, and history in support of the University’s teaching, research, and public service missions. These displays draw on the expertise of library workers to highlight community interests, library collections, services, facilities, and information resources. Displays will not be removed because of the ideas, topics, or viewpoints they present or because of the views of participants or speakers. Library display spaces are intended to support educational, cultural, intellectual, and charitable expression.

Intellectual Responsibility and Academic Freedom

Academic freedom is required and protected by University Policy 2:052 Academic Freedom and Responsibility. The Library affirms that civil, rigorous academic debate and the exchange of ideas and viewpoints are essential to scholarship and higher education. The Library does not mediate scholarly disputes or debates and takes no position on the viewpoints expressed in the materials they collect or display.

As an academic institution, it is assumed that patrons of the Library can bear responsibility for their own consumption of information and materials. At no time will the Library assume responsibility for a patron's reactions to exhibits or displays. The Library and its representatives will not act in loco parentis (as parents) at any time. Minors in the Library must always be accompanied by parents or other guardians in accordance with the Library Use by Individuals Under the Age of Eighteen Policy and University Policy 2:039 - Minors on Campus. Items in the Library will not be censored for content and users' information usage will not be monitored while accessing the Library or its materials.

Requests for Reconsideration of Library Exhibits/Displays

Any currently enrolled students, faculty, or staff members of APSU or residents of the state of Tennessee wishing to challenge an exhibit or display shown by the Library must complete a Request for Reconsideration of Library Exhibits/Displays form.

The completed form will be submitted to the Chair of the Exhibits/Displays Committee for review. The request will then be reviewed by the Library Director. Ultimate responsibility for decisions regarding the removal of the exhibit/display in question rests with the Library Director, who acts in consultation with the formed committee. The individual submitting the request will be notified in writing (via email) of the decision and any resulting action within forty-five (45) days of the receipt of the request.

Forms

Request for Reconsideration of Library Exhibits/Displays form

Adopted June 2026

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