Nathan Gonzales, archivist and head of special collections at Redlands' A.K. Smiley Public Library, will present "Art Right Under Your Nose: Collected Treasures at the Smiley Library" when the Redlands branch of American Association of University Women meets 10 a.m. June 7 in the Casa Loma Room on the University of Redlands campus.
"While most people think of libraries as places of literature, many might not realize the treasure that Redlands has in Smiley Library's collection of fine art, which was acquired over more than 130 years," Gonzales said in a news release from AAUW. "It's somewhat unusual for a public library to have such an extensive collection of fine art."
"Right now in the Assembly Room we are showing art pieces depicting the library itself throughout its history," Gonzales said. "We do change out the art displays from time to time. Of course, we're looking forward to showcasing even more of the collection once the Museum of Redlands opens."
Gonzales has served the city of Redlands for 25 years at the A.K. Smiley Public Library as a historian, archivist and curator. Since 2013, he has overseen the library's special collections division, including the Lincoln Memorial Shrine museum and curatorial development and planning for the Museum of Redlands, which will open later this year.
Gonzales, who also serves as an adjunct professor in the University of Redlands history department, received a master's degree and doctorate in history from UC Riverside. He is co-author of several books about Redlands history and is active in the Redlands community, including serving as president and on boards of directors for numerous local organizations.
In 2021, Gonzales was appointed, and in 2022 elected, to the San Bernardino Community College District Board of Trustees, which oversees both San Bernardino Valley College and Crafton Hills College.
The AAUW program is free and open to the public.
Those who also attend the 9 a.m. brunch preceding the meeting must make meal reservations by calling 909-362-4955 or emailing AAUWrsvp@AAUWRedlands.org. There is a $25 meal fee.
The American Association of University Women is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing equity for women and girls through education, empowerment and advocacy.