Under normal circumstances, the Burnett Gallery on the second floor of the Jones Library has monthly exhibits displaying the work of local artists. The purpose of the Burnett Gallery is to provide a place where community artists and crafts people can show their work, particularly those without the reputation or resources which would enable them to exhibit at museums or commercial galleries. Collectively, the library's exhibits aim to reflect a variety of media, styles, cultural viewpoints, and levels of artistic experience.

An application to exhibit in the Burnett Gallery may be submitted by individuals or groups from Amherst and surrounding towns.