Madison Public Library Foundation is proud to support a new photography exhibition, Preserving Art and Culture for a Decade, by artist Amadou Kromah, on display through August 1 at Central Library.
In his artist statement, Kromah hopes viewers will reflect on what preserving art and culture looks like in their everyday lives. That invitation aligns with Madison Public Library’s commitment to helping people document and share their own stories through resources like the Personal Archiving Lab and local history collection.
For Kromah, creating opportunities for connection is at the heart of the exhibition experience, “I hope my exhibits create a fun space for people to share stories, socialize and enjoy passions together.”
That spirit of connection is one reason Madison Public Library supports creative experiences. Libraries have long been places where people discover new ideas through books and lifelong learning. Art exhibitions invite visitors to engage with those ideas in a different way. “Art creates opportunities for connection, reflection, and belonging,” said Carlee Latimer, Madison Public Library’s Bubbler Program Administrator.
Libraries are uniquely positioned to make creativity accessible to everyone. Visitors may come to borrow a book, attend a program, use a computer, or meet a friend and unexpectedly discover a work of art that inspires wonder or encourages reflection. 
Kromah pointed to the diverse audiences libraries attract. “Anyone from the community can come, even those who weren’t expecting to see art at the library. They can enjoy a space that prioritizes a quiet and focused environment.”
That accessibility benefits everyone. Art helps create welcoming spaces where people feel seen, represented, and connected to their community. It introduces visitors to new perspectives, brightens shared spaces, and encourages meaningful conversations among people from different backgrounds and experiences.
Bubbler Program Administrator Carlee Latimer echoed this sentiment, “As humans we benefit from belonging, from being seen and finding time to reflect on our place in the world.”
Preserving Art and Culture for a Decade is on display in the Diana Endres Ballweg Gallery on the third floor of Central Library through August 1. For more information, visit the library’s exhibition information page here.
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