Programming Policy

Statement of Purpose

Library programs, events and activities support the BCLS mission by connecting the community to information, knowledge, entertainment and cultural exchange.

 

Definition of a Program

A Library program is defined as an event, activity, class, presentation or performance led by Library employees or led by non-Library individuals or groups in coordination with the Library. Such programs may take place inside the library, on or around library grounds, be hosted at a partner or community site or take place online.

Events Led by Library Staff

Library staff offer programs to the public in order to share their expertise, connect the community to books and literature, help navigate information as well as sources of information and educate the public about technology and applicable tools and resources.

Library hosted programs on religious, cultural, political or ideological themes may educate or inform, but not promote, observe, proselytize or campaign on a particular conviction.

Events Led by Outside Individuals, Organizations or Groups

In addition to events and activities led by library staff, BCLS partners with professionals, established performers, non-profit and civic organizations, government agencies, cultural institutions and commercial entities in order to expand access to knowledge, information and entertainment. The Library actively seeks programs from known and established individuals and entities but also tries to accommodate unsolicited requests. Those interested in proposing a program may submit a Program Proposal Application. Library staff will review submissions and, upon meeting basic criteria and presenter qualifications, will add it to our pool of qualified proposals.

When BCLS is unable to host an outside organization for a program, individuals, groups or organizations may reserve meeting spaces as per the BCLS Meeting and Study Room Policy.

General Guidelines

  • Registration may be required for some programs based on a need for special accommodations or when materials or space are limited.
  • Programs may be cancelled due to weather, low registration or at a presenter’s request and may or may not be rescheduled.
  • Most Library programs are free and open to the public; however, some programs or classes may require a fee to cover nominal costs for supplies, materials or presenter fees.
  • Some events may not be able to accommodate groups. Please contact the branch if you would like to bring a group to an event.
  • Programs may be developed for a particular age or audience. The Library reserves the right to set age-based recommendations for programs based upon the suitability of the materials presented, format, presenter, the relevancy and suitability of topic and programming methods for the intended audience. Attendees must be reasonably within the intended age group.
  • Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the program, the content presented or the views expressed by the participants