Arts @ the Library

What is Arts @ the Library?

To make art more prominent in our local libraries and to provide wider access to the community’s rich arts and culture scene, the Catawba County Library System has launched an Arts @ the Library initiative. The program introduces people to different styles of art and offers rotating art exhibits, artist receptions, and hands-on workshops for all ages.

The initiative is made possible with a grant from the United Arts Council of Catawba County and partnerships with the Hickory Museum of Art and the Catawba County Friends of the Library. The Library is also working with both local and regional artists’ collectives to make upcoming programs as robust and as widely appealing as possible.

As a key feature of the program, the Library is installing an Art-o-Mat® in the Main Library in Newton. This distinctive vending machine is a repurposed, vintage cigarette dispenser that sells small pieces of original art for only $5 each. Not only does it provide access to affordable, high-quality art in the community, but it also enhances the reach of local artists through Art-o-Mat’s national network.

For more information about the Library's arts programs and exhibits, please call 828.465.8665.

* To print out a release form to submit original content for a library program, click here.