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Forbes Library seeks CPA support for Kulage exhibit lighting and conservation
Summary
Forbes Library presented plans to redesign and preserve the Kulage presidential exhibit, including new lighting to reduce exposure to sensitive objects; presenters said the lighting budget is about $150,000 and that a CPA request will be part of the funding package.
Lisa Downing, director of Forbes Library, and exhibition designer Michael Hanky described a conservation-driven redesign of the Kulage exhibit space and requested preservation funding help from the commission for lighting upgrades. Downing said the space holds objects of local, state and national importance and that updated lighting is essential to preserve garments, documents and wood furniture.
"It's $150,000," Hanky said when asked about the lighting budget, explaining current lux levels exceeded recommended exposures for sensitive materials and that a more flexible, focal lighting system would reduce damage while improving visitor experience. Presenters said they planned to submit a CPA preservation request to cover part of the lighting work; during the meeting they referred to a CPA request figure in the mid-$140,000s.
Design details included a mural to block direct window light, specialized exhibit cases with low lux settings and a plan to rotate originals with reproductions as needed. Downing said the project team hopes to complete the work in summer 2027 if funding is secured. Commissioners asked about the scope, the projected timeline and whether the library had long-term conservation plans; presenters said they were writing grants and assembling a funding package and expected to move forward quickly if awards are granted.
The commission did not vote on the CPA request at this meeting; members expressed general support and noted the application would come before the CPC in a future round.
