Current
Open to the Public
Curators at Cushing Memorial Library and Archives work tirelessly to host exhibitions that showcase the multitude of art, creativity and history that Texas A&M University offers.
PAST EXHIBITS
In 1930, Texas A&M University introduced its first freestanding library facility.
Later, it became a special collections library to curate rare items such as Mesopotamian tablets, ancient Roman chariot pieces, Texas historical artifacts, and one of the largest science fiction and fantasy collections in the country. The library also included the University Archives to house and preserve historical Texas A&M items such as cadet uniforms, military history objects and an extensive photo collection. Today, Cushing Memorial Library and Archives preserves and collects these materials for future generations’ enjoyment and protects each item’s cultural heritage.
Each year, Cushing organizes two large exhibitions to showcase the library’s diverse artifacts, connect with the community and give its collections new life. Exhibitions feature both historic and current topics that serve to educate and entertain and, at times, asks visitors to reflect on serious issues.
Cushing is open to the general public Monday through Friday for visitors to observe exhibitions free of charge.
CURRENT & UPCOMING EXHIBITS
Current & Upcoming Exhibits
Live to Build a Better World: Despair, Survival and Hope in Science Fiction’s Response to Environmental Change
Open to the public until June 30, 2021, this exhibit features more than 100 science fiction books and movie posters showcasing the increased importance of climate change concerns as represented in literature and other art forms.
Current Exhibit
Upcoming
We Could Have Been One: The Birth of the Prairie View A&M and Texas A&M University Campuses
We Could Have Been One: The Birth of the Prairie View A&M and Texas A&M University Campuses
This collaboration between Texas A&M and Prairie View A&M’s archives compares historic documents and photos from the birth of both campuses in 1876. Available July 14 through Dec. 22, 2022.
Upcoming Exhibit
Upcoming
LGBTQIA+ History, As Seen Through College Station and Houston Collections
LGBTQIA+ History, As Seen Through College Station and Houston Collections
In a collaboration with the University of Houston and other Houston special collections and archives, this exhibit will feature items about LGBTQIA+ history, including books, magazines, artifacts and research, plus newsletters from the 1980s AIDS crisis and documentation of famous court cases. Available July 12 to Dec. 16, 2021.
Upcoming Exhibit
Upcoming
Charting Texas
Charting Texas
This exhibit will showcase historic and current maps of Texas along with Texan-made and Texas-inspired artwork. Available Jan. 17 to April 15, 2022.
Upcoming Exhibit
Upcoming
Wild/LIFE
Wild/LIFE
Launching May 2, 2022, this national traveling exhibit will feature recently created works by members of the Guild of Book Workers, with creations focused on the “wildlife” theme (literal or abstract). The start date may change due to COVID-related delays.
Upcoming Exhibit
SHOW SUPPORT
Make a Donation
Feeling inspired by the fascinating collections at Cushing Memorial Library and Archives? Support its mission of preserving history by making a gift of any amount at give.am/SupportCushing. To support the University Libraries’ preservation efforts, visit give.am/SupportLibrariesPreservation.
