Programming Policy

Purpose

The library provides programs for all ages that are open to anyone in the community. The programs offered follow the library’s vision to be a community meeting house for learning, growth and so much more and the library’s mission statement, to strengthen our community by: inspiring lifelong learning, reading and literacy; encouraging creativity, innovation and the exchange of information; and providing cultural enrichment.

Other considerations include the timing of the program, availability of program space, staff availability, and the library’s programming budget. The budget for library programming is generously provided by the Friends of the Medfield Library, although the Friends of the Medfield Library are not responsible for or consulted on programming content. Efforts are made to provide a range of programs, diversity of topics, and to meet expressed needs and interests of the community.

These considerations are illustrative and not binding. Responsibility for programming at the library rests with the Library Director under the authority of the Board of Trustees. The Library Director may delegate the authority for program management to the Head of Children’s Services, Teen Librarian, and the Adult Services Librarian, who oversee this responsibility.

Community Resources

The library draws from community resources in developing programs and actively partners with community agencies, local businesses, organizations, educational and cultural institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. The library welcomes partnerships with these organizations and will provide the space and publicity for the event.

Non-Commerciality

Library programs must be non-commercial in nature. A professional expert may present a program, but the information presented should not be promotional or for the solicitation of business. No individual or organization is permitted to use a library program to advertise or recruit members or customers. Programs are not to be used for commercial, religious, or partisan purposes.

Participation

All library programs are open to the public. In general, library programs are free, however, a fee may be charged for library programs to recover the cost of a presenter, materials or supplies. Age restrictions may be imposed for some programs, and those will be communicated in promotional materials for the program.

Filming/Photographs

Program participants should expect that photographs/video may be taken at events and used on the library’s social media sites and/or website. Participants may request that their image not be used by the library by speaking with library staff in charge of the program.

Content

Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants, and program topics. Speakers and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on February 8, 2022.