Marin County Bringing Rentable Art To Local Libraries

CORTE MADERA, CA — A new program is coming to Marin County in the fall that will allow Marin County Free Library cardholders to borrow works created by local artists. A partnership between the library system and the Department of Cultural Services, the "On the Wall" program is designed to support local artists and give patrons a new way to enjoy unique creations at no cost.

"Every Marin County resident should have access to works of art, and few places are more accessible than our County's public libraries," said Lana Adlawan, MCFL's director. "We think this is an innovative and exciting new way to give library cards new power, expand access to art for Marin residents, and process direct support for local artists by purchasing and exhibiting their work."

The county is still looking for local artists interested in submitting works before the program launches in autumn. The call is open to anyone 18 or older who lives, works, or has studio space in Marin County, and each artist can submit up to three drawings, paintings, photos, prints, textiles, or mixed media projects.

Works that are selected in September will be placed at libraries in South Novato, Point Reyes Station, Inverness, Corte Madera and Marin City, with plans to expand to all branches in the future.

The new program is supported by the Marin County Library Foundation, Friends of Marin City Library, Friends of the Novato Libraries and the Tomales Bay Library Association.