| Meinders Community Library Board Policy | 306 | ||
| Policy: Library Programs | Originally Adopted | Next Review | |
| Current Version Adopted | May 2, 2018 | May 2021 | |
Purpose: To expand Library offerings and strengthen the community through shared experiences; particularly in the areas of arts, education, entertainment, literacy, culture and technology.
Section 1: Program Content
The Library strives to provide a wide array of programs that target a variety of interests across all ages. Library programs will align with and fulfill the Library’s mission, vision and goals.
- Children’s programming aims to develop the intellectual and social skills of young listeners through literature, music, creative activities, reading and presentations.
- Junior and teen programming focuses on engaging youth through literature and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) related activities.
- Adult programming focuses on reading, life-long learning, community and cultural engagement, as well as topical information-sharing on a wide variety of local, national and global subjects.
Section 2: Program Access and Fees
- For the most part, Library programs will be free and open to the public. Exceptions to this rule apply when not having restrictions would impact the quality of the program, such as space or resource limitations, appropriateness of content, or safety concerns. Some events may require pre-registration to help maintain the integrity of the program.
- Occasionally, the Library may charge a nominal fee to offset the cost of supplies.
- The Library may charge for a program that is offered as a fund-raising venture that benefits the Library. Additionally, presenters may sell books or other materials as part of a program.
Section 3: Co-Sponsorship and Collaboration
Whenever possible, the Library will collaborate with and/or cosponsor programs with other organizations, government agencies, businesses or individuals to bring unique and engaging presentations to the public, in so much that the programs are mutually beneficial to and equitable for the Library and the program partner. The Library Director shall oversee both the negotiations and evaluations of such agreements and their outcomes.
Section 4: Patron Concerns
In keeping with the ALA Bill of Rights, programs hosted by the Library will cover a large spectrum of thoughts, ideas, perspectives and opinions—some of which may be deemed objectionable to individuals or groups. Library sponsorship does not imply endorsement of a program’s content. That said, concerns over program content may be discussed with Library Staff, the Director or by addressing the Library Board via a Request for Reconsideration such as with library materials.