Library Display Materials Policy
The Wolcott Public Library’s Display Policy provides a basis for the display of library materials curated by library staff, informs the public about the principles and criteria upon which these decisions are made, and promotes the purposes of the library’s mission, which is:
To make high-interest, high-demand materials readily available, as well as to actively support the lifelong learning and information needs of community residents of all ages and abilities. Special emphasis is placed on stimulating children’s interests and appreciation for reading and learning, on integrating new technology and traditional library resources, and expanding access and services beyond the library’s physical walls.
In addition, the library draws upon other community resources in developing displays and exhibits, and may partner with other community agencies, organizations, educational institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored displays and exhibits.
Principles and Criteria
The final responsibility for the display of library materials is held by the library Director, but day- to-day responsibility is shared by library professional and paraprofessional employees. Library staff uses the following criteria in making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources:
- Community needs and interests
- Availability of display space
- Historical, cultural, or educational significance
- Connection to other community or national programs, exhibitions, or events
- Relation to library collections, resources, exhibits and programs
The library will strive to include a wide spectrum of opinions and viewpoints in library-initiated displays and exhibits as well as offer displays and exhibits that appeal to a range of ages, interests, and information needs. Library initiated displays and exhibits should not exclude topics, books, media, and other resources solely because they may be considered controversial.
Intellectual Freedom and Censorship
The library preserves the right of citizens to obtain information on all sides of potentially controversial issues so that individuals can decide for themselves the value of opposing ideas. In representing various sides of a question, the library thus provides citizens with reliable sources of information on which to base intelligent decisions in their daily lives.
The library has a responsibility to protect the rights of all patrons. Displays which may be considered frank or offensive to some are permitted if they adhere to the Library Display Policy and contributes to the furtherance of its mission.
Parents and legal guardians have the right and responsibility to restrict the access of only their children to library resources and not others in the community. The display of materials is not inhibited by the possibility that particular works may inadvertently be seen by or come into the possession of children and young adults.
Labels will be provided only as viewpoint-neutral directional aids to facilitate access by making it easier for users to locate materials. The materials are displayed on open shelves and are equally accessible to all users, who may choose to consult or ignore the directional aids at their own discretion.
The American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read, and Freedom to View statements are basic to the above policy.
Bulletin Board
The library has two public bulletin boards; one in the front foyer, and one outdoor community bulletin board to provide residents of Wolcott and surrounding towns with information on educational, cultural, and other activities.
Materials for the public and community bulletin boards must be submitted to and approved by the library Director or his/her designee. Any items not approved will be removed. Postings are to be put up and taken down by library staff only.
Items are limited to non-profit organization information.
Free Materials Distribution
The library also provides space for free distribution materials that conform to the above guidelines. This includes copies of free local newspapers or magazines of an objective nature. Free distribution materials will also be put out and removed by library staff only.
The library does not post or distribute personal, commercial, or for-profit materials or petitions and reserves the right to reject items it deems inappropriate.
Display Case Policy
The display case in the main library is intended for use of library materials and promotion of library programs, and for residents and organizations of Wolcott and surrounding communities for non-commercial, informational, cultural, and educational displays. The case is available by advance booking for periods of one month.
The display of items does not indicate the library’s endorsement of any organization or information.
Procedures for Patron Concerns over Library Displays
In the event a patron has questions or concerns regarding a library display they should be referred to the library Director who will make ever attempt to satisfy the patron’s concern by clarifying the established display policies.