Library-Sponsored Programming Policy

Purpose of Policy

The Minocqua Public Library’s mission is to enrich our community by providing a welcoming and vibrant environment where all ages can explore, learn, grow, and connect. In support of this mission, the library provides programming for the interests, information, and enlightenment of
community members.

This policy is to provide library staff with guidelines to assist them in the development of library programs. It is also intended to inform the public about the principles and criteria by which programs are selected.

This policy applies to library-sponsored or co-sponsored programs and does not apply to meetings or events that fall under the Program Room Policy.

Programming Criteria

Within the constraints of its resources, the library offers a diverse range of programs in a variety of formats to support the informational, educational, cultural, and recreational needs of the community it serves.

Selection and planning of library programs are the responsibility of the library staff. The public may recommend programs for consideration. The director retains the authority to reject or approve any program.

Programming should accomplish one or more of the following objectives:

• Meet community needs
• Expand the library’s role as a community resource
• Introduce patrons and non-users to library resources
• Provide entertainment
• Provide opportunities for lifelong learning and community building
• Encourage inclusivity and recognize the diversity of the community
• Expand the visibility of the library

Library staff responsible for the development of programs use the following criteria in making decisions about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:

• Fulfillment of one or more of the objectives above
• Relevance to community needs and interests
• Availability of program space
• Presenter background/qualifications in content area
• Budget
• Connection to other community programs, exhibitions, or events
• Relation to library collections, resources, exhibits, and programs

Program presenters may include library staff with relevant skills or expertise, volunteers or staff from co-sponsoring organizations, local or visiting authors and performing artists, local or visiting speakers with recognized credentials or relevant experience, and qualified instructors
and trainers.

Library programs are free and open to the public. Registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited. The library may make reasonable accommodations to ensure that programs are accessible to all who wish to attend and participate. Individuals who require specific accommodations for participation are invited to contact the library in advance of the program. Participants who do not wish to be photographed should notify library staff.

Programs are non-commercial. Presenters may have a business affiliation, but no solicitation or promotion for business purposes is permitted. Sale of books, CDs, or artwork by authors, performers, or artists is permitted as part of a library program when arranged in advance.

Co-Sponsored Programs

The library draws upon other community resources in developing programs and actively partners with nonprofit organizations, community agencies, educational and cultural institutions, government entities, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. Co-sponsorship decisions are made on the basis of shared interest, responsibility, and mutual benefit, with final approval from the library director. Co-sponsorship by the library does not constitute an endorsement of program content.

Disclaimers

The library recognizes that at any given time some programs, events, or exhibits may be deemed inappropriate or offensive by some patrons. Selection of library programs and events are based on the principles stated in this policy. Library programs, events, and exhibits will not exclude topics solely on the grounds that they may be controversial.

The Library Board believes that censorship is purely an individual matter and declares that while anyone is free to reject for themselves programs, events, or exhibits that they do not approve of, they cannot exercise this right of censorship to prevent other persons from attending or viewing.
The library adheres to and supports the ALA Bill of Rights, Freedom to View Statement, and Freedom to Read Statement.

Library sponsorship of a program or exhibit does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or exhibit. Beliefs and opinions expressed during library programs by speakers, presenters, performers, or participants do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of the library.

Approved by Library Board: October 21, 2024