Register 50 Seats Remaining

Exhibit Tour & Infosession

Featuring guest curator Laila Abdul-Hadi Jadallah

Tour current exhibits at the MLK Library and learn how to apply to have the DC Public Library host your exhibit in 2027 and beyond.

Note: The tour will meet near the Welcome Desk in the Great Hall at 5:30 and proceed to Floor 5 at 6:00 p.m. where it will conclude.

In this short program, visitors will explore two current exhibits at the MLK Library and have the opportunity to learn more about applying to the Open Call Program.

The program will begin with a tour on two floors, Floor 1 and Floor 5, for a brief introduction to two exhibits:

- On the first floor, the exhibit District Vibes / American Pride: How D.C. Changed American Culture, organized by the DC Public Library Exhibits in conjunction with the nation’s 250th anniversary.

- On the fifth floor, the exhibit Diasporacity, guest curated by Laila Abdul-Hadi Jadallah and selected through the Library's Open Call for Exhibits. 

At the end of the tour, we will hold an informal Q&A about the proposal process. Please bring your ideas and questions!

About the Open Call for Exhibits at DC Public Library

Exhibits at the DC Public Library are key to expanding visitors' knowledge of the District’s rich past and are a portal to engagement in the District’s present and future. The MLK Library and select neighborhood libraries host temporary exhibits in a variety of spaces, and limited slots are available. Proposals areconsidered through an application process each fall. The next deadline will be November 6, 2026, 11:59 p.m.

 For the application, visit dclibrary.org/exhibits
(see under "Apply")

Important notes:

• The next deadline for applications is Friday, November 6, for exhibits scheduled 2027 and later. The next deadline will be in fall 2028.
• It is highly recommended that applicants review the Guide for Exhibit Applicants at this link and visit the MLK Library before preparing an application. 
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Questions about the exhibit application process may be sent to MLKexhibits@dc.gov.
• To request accommodations for this program, please contact the DC Public Library Center for Accessibility by email at DCPLaccess@dc.gov or phone at 202-727-2142.
• Please note that we are not accepting solo art exhibitions at this time.

Upcoming events