The San Francisco Public Library is dedicated to free and equal access to information, knowledge, independent learning and the joys of reading for our diverse community.
San Francisco Public Library exhibitions and corresponding programs provide a platform for cutting-edge and diverse local artists and community members working across media to explore the rich stories of the Bay Area. Through creative placemaking initiatives - homegrown exhibitions, exhibition programs, artist engagements and site-specific installations at the Main and Branches, we strive to make the arts accessible to all and define the SFPL an artful destination.
Exhibitions are typically planned 2-3 years in advance to allow for adequate planning, contracting, curation and publicizing of the exhibition. Proposals are reviewed periodically throughout the year, and those proposals found to be most closely aligned with our strategic priorities are considered for installation. The 2025 exhibition calendar is full, and we are not taking proposals for the current calendar year.
Q: What is this proposal form for?
A: This form is a way to propose an exhibition to be displayed at the Library in our Jewett or Skylight galleries or one of our Affinity Centers. If you are an SFPL staff member working on a display in one of our smaller display areas, Affinity Centers or Library Branches we encourage you to use a shortened version of this proposal form, located on Staffnet. If this format does not work for you to submit your idea, we also have the proposal available on paper which can be picked up at the Main Library or sent in the mail. You can also contact us by email at exhibitionsteam@sfpl.org or by phone (415) 557-4595.
Please take a moment to review our Exhibition Guidelines and Exhibitions Policy before you start your proposal.
https://sfpl.org/services/exhibits-programs/exhibitions-guidelines
https://sfpl.org/services/exhibits-programs/exhibitions-policy
Q: Who should fill out this proposal form?
A: Anyone! Members of the public, community groups, organizations, educators, curators, historians or artists - all are welcome. However, if you are an SFPL staff member seeking to display in one of our smaller display areas, Affinity Centers or Library Branches we encourage you to use a shortened version of this proposal form, located on Staffnet. The Library encourages different voices from diverse communities to be displayed throughout the Library system. If you have an idea, we are eager to hear it.
Q: What information do I need to have prepared to complete this proposal form?
A: This proposal form contains several key sections where you will be asked to share as much information about your idea with us as you can. The sections are:
Object Checklist
- Exhibition Content
- Physical Details of the Exhibition
- Proposed Dates/Timing
- Exhibition History
- Proposed Public Programs
- Exhibition Costs
- Security & Insurance
- Publicity
You will be asked to email us copies of any files you have prepared such as a checklist of objects, label copy (text in the exhibition), graphics and visuals, any other interpretive content, a speakers' list, a budget, a resume or artist statement, letters of support and anything else you may need to share with us.
Q: What if I cannot provide some of the information requested or if it is not applicable to my situation?
A: If you are unable to answer a question or do not have the information at this time, you are welcome to leave it blank. If it is a required question, you can record the reason this information is unknown. We still encourage you to submit a proposal and can work with you to make sure we have enough information to proceed.
Q: What happens to my files and data once I submit this proposal?
A: Your files and proposal will be made available to staff in our Office of Exhibitions & Programming and potentially other staff at SFPL on a case-by-case basis. Your information will not be distributed to outside parties without your permission.
Q: What is the next step in your process?
A: At the end of this form you will be prompted to submit your additional files to us by email. Your proposal will be reviewed by the Exhibitions Team and we will contact you following its review. Exhibitions in our larger galleries are typically planned 2-3 years in advance to allow for adequate planning, contracting, curation and publicizing of the exhibition. Proposals are reviewed periodically throughout the year, and those proposals found to be most closely aligned with our strategic priorities are considered for installation. Please note, the 2025 exhibition calendar is full and we are not taking proposals for the current calendar year.
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