Display and exhibit space is available within the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library District for sharing educational, artistic, and cultural materials that promote interest in the use of books, library resources, and information, or that share information about local art and cultural organizations. The library staff has the primary responsibility for developing displays and exhibits using library resources. However, exhibits that are related to public events and timely topics may be scheduled. Displays of handiwork, historical material, nature study, or any other material deemed of general interest may be exhibited. The library staff and/or Library Director shall accept or reject material offered for display based on its suitability and availability.

Exhibits that are solely for commercial purposes, including the sale of goods and services, will not be considered. Works by commercial or professional artists may be exhibited but not sold in the library.

Although the library supports free speech and the First Amendment, exhibits may not include speech that is not constitutionally protected or material that would violate election laws if the library is being used as a polling site. No materials, leaflets, or posters which advocate the election of a candidate, political or otherwise, shall be displayed at the library. The Library Director may also exclude other items if they are determined to be illegal or would pose a health or safety hazard to library customers.

Announcements of cultural and civic programs and similar items, in the form of posters and flyers, may be displayed in the library, if space is available, by permission of the branch supervisor.

The library will take reasonable care to ensure the safety and security of items displayed, however the library has no insurance to cover loss, damage, or theft. Exhibitors are encouraged to obtain insurance for items of value and will be required to sign a form releasing the library from liability (See 7.4A Agreement for Personal Equipment Loan for Library Use). Items not removed as scheduled will be removed by staff and secured for 30 days. After 30 days, unclaimed items will be disposed of.

Items for display must be tastefully done and subject matter should be suitable for viewing by the general public. The Library Director reserves the right to reject any materials which are unsuitable. Each display shall only include material classified for one age group: children, teens, or adults. No age-inappropriate materials in any form, as defined in the library’s collection development policy, will knowingly be displayed in the library in areas designated by the library as containing materials predominantly for minor children. This statement is required by 15 CSR 30-220.015 Library Certification Requirement for the Protection of Minors, subsection (d).

No organization or individual not associated with the work of the library shall be permitted to place on library property any receptacle which solicits donations, nor shall any poster or display be permitted which advocates or solicits consideration of any product or item sold by any commercial or charitable enterprise. No petitions will be allowed. Tickets may not be sold on library property, except for library related events.

The library will not display or exhibit advertisements for any “for profit” business or enterprise.

Display or exhibit of items in the library does not indicate endorsement of the issues, events, items, or services promoted by the displayed materials. Organizations that are denied the use of exhibit areas or display cases or that disagree with the Library Director’s decision regarding items to be displayed may appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees.

See

7.4A Agreement for Personal Equipment Loan for Library Use