Open to the public

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.

Past Exhibits

Worlds Imagined:

The Maps of Imaginary Places Collections

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Graphic map of an imaginary place Graphic map of an imaginary place Graphic map of an imaginary place
Library slide 2 Library slide 2 Library slide 2

Past Exhibits

A Spirit Can Ne’er Be Told:

Traditions of Aggieland

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blue, old corps jacket blue, old corps jacket blue, old corps jacket
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Past Exhibits

Shifting Frontiers:

Texas From Spain to Space

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Texas Ranger smiling on a horse Texas Ranger smiling on a horse Texas Ranger smiling on a horse
Library slide 6 Library slide 6 Library slide 6

CURRENT & UPCOMING EXHIBITS

Current & Upcoming Exhibits

Current

Live to Build a Better World: Despair, Survival and Hope in Science Fiction’s Response to Environmental Change

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.