This book is a solid primer for those interested in creating exhibitions or setting up an exhibit program at their institution. I found this book to be full of great ideas, processes and resources for creating good exhibits. The insights in this book will prepare anyone interested in creating, producing, and installing an exhibit in their library.

Technical Services Quarterly

Library workers interested in creating displays and exhibits (of books, artworks, archival materials, etc.) will find this hands-on guide full of helpful advice. Ng-He and Gibbons have organized the chapters in order of the steps of putting together an exhibit. They discuss not only why libraries should create exhibits and displays but also how to follow an institution’s vision, know one’s audience, write effective text and labels, prepare and handle the items in physical displays, and plan, manage, and market an exhibit. Each of the chapters is readable and full of examples and concludes with definitions, key points, notes, references, and further reading. Whether librarians are new to or experienced in creating exhibits, they’ll find this a useful guide. For those working in public, academic, school, and special libraries.

Library Journal

What a generous and helpful book! Reminding their readers that libraries are free, public, and well-used, the authors point out that they are perfect places for exhibits about books and anything else that will excite and educate people. Not stopping there, the writers also suggest that everyone can learn to make wonderful displays and then proceed to offer guidance to exhibit development that will be useful in all settings. I love the book’s vivid and approachable writing—‘Underlining text is clunky and sort of ‘screamy’’—and direct messages—‘Variety is energizing.’ But best, to me, is its can-do attitude—Yes, you, make an exhibit!—and presumption that exhibit makers should be concerned with their audiences. Exhibits must engage, the authors assert. And their book is a good guide toward that goal.

Therese Quinn, director, Museum and Exhibition Studies, University of Illinois at Chicago

The kind of practical advice found here will be useful for any librarian hoping to create and curate exhibits or improve current ones. Advice by librarians, for librarians, is the best kind; I first became aware of Carol Ng-He’s interest and expertise in library exhibits when she contributed a successful article to the ILA Reporter journal. These Illinois librarians have thought of everything exhibits so readers don’t have to, from why and how, to promotion and programming around exhibits, to assessment.

Diane Foote, executive director, Illinois Library Association

Exhibits and Displays is particularly useful for those who are new to developing exhibitions or who work in an institution that is formulating a program of exhibitions for the first time. From planning to implementation, Ng-He and Gibbons offer clear steps for creating exhibitions effectively. They also remind the reader that a successful exhibition extends beyond the physical display to marketing, programming, and assessment.

Jennifer K. Sheehan, PhD, exhibitions and communications manager, The Grolier Club

This comprehensive book will be a welcome resource for librarians planning exhibitions. It covers everything from creating and installing to programming and assessment for exhibits of all sizes in every type of library. The authors draw on their years of training and experience with a variety of library exhibits, including small pop-up displays, traveling shows, and digital exhibitions. Case studies, vendor recommendations, and resources for further reading are also included.

Amy Trendler, president (2020-2021), Art Libraries Society of North America, and architecture librarian, Ball State University Libraries