Library Programming Policy

Approved by the Centre County Library & Historical Museum Board of Trustees on October 28, 2021

Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for what types of in-person and virtual programs are appropriate for presentation at the Library.

Definition

A Library program is defined as a library sponsored event, activity or presentation, that was developed, conducted and supported through the efforts of library staff and volunteers.

Statement of Policy:

Library programming promotes the use of Library resources, collections, facilities and/or services to offer the community an informational, entertaining, educational or cultural experience in support of our mission. The Executive Director has the authority to approve or disallow library programming.

1. Library programs shall be free and open to the general public. Attendance at all programs shall not be restricted by gender, race, orientation, background or personal belief.

2. The Library reserves the right to set age limits for program participants safety and for the achievement of educational goals and outcomes.

3. The Library reserves the right to limit capacity for programs for safety purposes.

4. The Library reserves the right to charge as appropriate for materials or books that the participants will keep.

5. Library programs must be non-commercial in nature. Although a business person or other professional expert may present a program, the information or activity should be generic in nature. No solicitation of business is permitted without prior approval by library staff.

6. The sale of products at a Library program is not allowed except under these exceptions:

6.1 Because of the relationship between authors and literacy, the Library encourages reading, writing, and the appreciation of culture. Writers, performers and artists invited by the library for the purpose of presenting a program may sell their own works at the Library following the program, provided that the Library receives at least a nominal portion of the proceeds.

6.2 The Library and its ancillary fundraising organizations of the Library (e.g. the Friends of the Library), may sell items, at Library programs they sponsor and for the express purpose of fundraising.

7. Attendance at other programs shall not be restricted because of age, gender, race, orientation, background, or personal belief.