Library Programming Policy

Washington-Centerville Public Library schedules, develops, and presents a wide variety of programs that provide opportunities for information, enrichment, and entertainment. Programming is an integral component of library services that:

• Expands the Library's role as a community resource
• Introduces patrons and non-users to Library resources
• Provides entertainment
• Provides opportunities for lifelong learning
• Expands the visibility of the Library

Ultimate responsibility for programming at the Library rests with the Library Director, who administers programming under the authority of the Board of Trustees. The Library Director, in turn, delegates the authority for program development and management to appropriate departmental staff.

Library staff use the following criteria in making decisions about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:

• Community needs and interests
• Availability of program space and Library staff
• Treatment of content for the intended audience
• Presentation quality
• Presenter background/qualifications in content area
• Budget
• Historical or educational significance
• Connection to other community programs, exhibitions or events
• Relation to Library collections, resources, exhibits, and programs

In addition, the Library draws upon other community resources in developing programs and actively partners with other community agencies, organizations, educational and cultural institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. Library staff who present programs do so as part of their regular job and shall not be hired as outside contractors for programming.

Professional performers and presenters that reflect specialized or unique expertise may be hired for Library programs. Payment to an external presenter will be set in accordance with the Fiscal Manual and may require Library Director or Board of Trustees approval. All external program presenters are required to indemnify the Library (including the Board, employees, and agents of the Library) against any damages, claims, or liability arising in connection with the presentation of a program. Payment to external program presenters will only be made when the following conditions are met: completed W-9 form, completed Independent Contractor/Worker Acknowledgement (PEDAKN) form, completion of program, written invoice from presenter for required items and presenter fee, and approval of the payment at the Library's monthly Board of Trustees meeting.

All Library programs are open to the public. Programs may be held on-site, off-site or online. Registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited. Registrants must notify the Library no fewer than 24 hours prior to the program if unable to attend. Repeated no-shows will result in a two-month suspension from program registration.

The Library's philosophy of open access to information and ideas extends to Library programming, and the Library does not knowingly discriminate through its programming. Program topics, speakers, and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants or speakers.

Outside presenters may distribute informational materials about their company or organization, including general service information and contact details. However, materials containing direct solicitation language are prohibited. This includes words and phrases such as “invite,” “make an appointment,” “schedule,” “book now,” “call today,” or other action-oriented language that directly solicits business.

Acceptable example: “For more information about xyz, visit our website at XYZcompany.com”
Not acceptable: “Invite us to perform at your next celebration.” “Visit us for …”

All handout materials must be reviewed and approved by library staff prior to distribution.