The University of Washington Libraries' exhibit "Seattle Gay News Celebrates 50!" — displayed at the UW's Allen North Library last spring and at the Seattle Public Library's Central Library Level 8 Gallery last summer — will be presented at Western Washington University's Viking Union Gallery, 516 High St., Bellingham, WA, this winter, from January 13 to February 20.

"The Seattle Gay News, one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ newspapers in the world, is officially 50!" the Seattle Public Library wrote in promoting this exhibit. "Explore the history of a newspaper that has served the Seattle Gay community since March 1974, reporting on arts, culture, health, politics, civil rights, and more."

This exceptional exhibit will be on display for Western students, faculty, and staff, as well as for the general public, during regular Viking Union Gallery hours, which are Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. In addition, plans are being discussed to open the gallery on some or all Saturdays (from noon to 5 p.m.) during the run of the exhibit, so as to offer a weekend viewing option.

"This exhibit and preservation effort is a great example of how partners, including our amazing UW Libraries student employees, can work together to accomplish something bigger than each of us could do on our own," said Jessica Albano, UW Libraries news librarian in comments to the Seattle Public Library. "It is also a great reminder of the important role news plays in our communities. Preserving and providing access to these primary sources are critical to learning about and understanding [our] history."

There will be an opening reception on January 14 from 5 to 7 p.m., during which guests are expected to make remarks. A closing reception will be scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. the week of February 20. A special event for Western students related to the exhibit is also expected to be organized.

In addition, Bellingham's intergenerational monthly LGBTQ+ potluck, Generations of Pride, sponsored by LGBTQ+ Western Washington University, Bellingham Queer Collective, and PFLAG/Bellingham, will be held at the Viking Union in conjunction with the exhibit, with the date and details still to be determined.

Finally, celebrate Valentine's Day and Freedom to Marry on Friday, February 14, at the "Seattle Gay News Celebrates 50!" exhibit at the Viking Union Gallery.

For questions about the exhibit, including possible Saturday hours during the exhibit's almost six-week run, contact the Viking Union Gallery at [email protected]. For directions, contact the Viking Union information desk at (360) 650-3450.