Inspired by little free libraries to encourage creativity, the free exchange of art, and community connections, the WPPL Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG) is located in the lobby near the display cases. You are welcome to take a piece of art that inspires you, leave a piece of art that you have created or both!

People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to contribute art to the FLAG. Place your art donations (no larger than 4” x 6” x 4”) in the gallery yourself or give it to one of the service desks if there isn’t enough space. Follow #FLAGatWPPL on social media to see the latest art and use the hashtag yourself to join in!

Select art from the FLAG to take home, give as a gift or stick to your car's dashboard! You can also take home an art supply to fuel your creativity! Please only take one piece of art and one kit or supply per person per day.

Supply donations—such as Crayola-type products, art and origami paper, beads, pipe cleaners and more—may be given to one of the service desks. Please no yarn or fabric at this time.

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions, read our policy or stop by a service desk if you have questions!

Local and regional artists and arts organizations regularly display their work in Westlake Porter Public Library's gallery space and display cases. Located at the front of the library on the way to the meeting rooms, the gallery space is well-lit with a flexible hanging system for two-dimensional works. Three-dimensional works are displayed in the nearby display cases. The gallery and display cases are accessible during regular library hours.

The two display cases in the lobby exhibit art, memorabilia and library-related presentations on a regular basis. The cases may be booked separately or in conjunction with the Gallery Wall.

Interested artists must apply in advance to exhibit work at the library. Art exhibits are selected following the standards set in the library’s Materials Selection Policy. If selected, WPPL requests a commission of 20% for any artwork sold.

• Free Little Art Gallery
  • Who can participate?

    Everyone, no matter your age or ability!

  • When is the gallery open?

    During the library’s normal business hours.

  • Where is the FLAG located?

    In the lobby of the library, near the Welcome desk.

  • How much does the art cost?

    The art is free, but please limit yourself to one piece of art per day.

  • Do I need to leave art if I want to take a piece?

    You are welcome to leave art for others to take, but it is not necessary.

  • If I donate five pieces of art, may I also take five pieces?

    Please limit yourself to taking one piece of art per day, regardless of how much art you donate.

  • May I take one piece of art AND one supply?

    Yes!

  • How big can my art be?

    We prefer art that is smaller than 4” x 6” x 4”, but larger pieces may be included as space allows.

  • Can I put my art directly in the gallery?

    Yes, you can place your own art in the gallery if there is space and you don’t obstruct another piece.

  • What if the gallery is full or I want someone else to put my art in the gallery?

    You may leave your art pieces at the Welcome desk.

  • What kind of art may I donate? Can I donate macaroni art, homemade lotion or candles?

    Donate small paintings, drawings, collage, jewelry, pottery, wood, sculptures, origami, small crochet or knitted pieces, photography, painted rocks, greeting cards, zines, magnets, etc.

    We ask that you don’t bring in anything that may attract critters, be messy or smelly, or goes on the skin.

  • I donated something two weeks ago and it was gone the next week. Now it’s back—what happened?

    Sometimes we rotate art that has been in the gallery for a while to give other pieces a chance to be viewed, or to display art that fits a theme.

  • I have supplies left over from my kid’s art classes. Can I donate them to the gallery?

    Yes, we’d love to pass on new or gently used art supplies and small kits. Examples would be art and origami paper; Crayola-type products; jewelry supplies; embroidery floss; wood, ceramic, and papier-mâché shapes that can be decorated; small canvases; small smooth rocks to be painted; and clear plastic zipper bags. Please leave them at the Welcome desk.

    Bulky items like yarn and fabric are not needed at this time.

  • Will I get paid for my art? May I attach my social media or contact information to my art?

    This is a free exchange of art—no money is involved.

    You may attach your social media handles or other contact information to your art. We may share your art and tag you on library social media as well!

  • Are the supplies and art that I donate tax deductible?

    The library does not give tax advice but will provide a blank contribution receipt upon request.

  • How can I follow the Free Little Art Gallery on social media?

    We use the hashtag #FLAGatWPPL when posting to our social media accounts about the FLAG.

  • If I see a piece of art on social media that I really want, may I call the library and have it held?

    No, the library cannot hold or mail any art or supplies.

  • I don’t live nearby but would like to participate by donating art. Where can I send my art?

    You can send art or supplies following the policies and guidelines to:

    Westlake Porter Public Library
    Attn: FLAG
    27333 Center Ridge Road
    Westlake, OH  44145