Exhibits and Notices Policy

  1. Selection of Materials

    In keeping with the Library Mission Statement the Library celebrates lifelong learning, fosters community connections, and promotes personal enrichment through engaging resources and experiences. In practice this mission has been partially served by exhibits for the public. These materials may be organized and presented by the Library, members of the community or appropriate non-profit groups within the guidelines of the Library Bill of Rights, Town of Hampden ordinances and this Exhibits and Notices Policy. The selection of materials for exhibit is the responsibility of the Library Director. All staff members may be involved in this process.

  2. Guidelines for Selection

    Materials are selected on the basis of the interest, education and recreation they offer the library patrons. Exhibit space is offered on an equitable basis regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the exhibitor(s).

    A. Public Notices

    Timely notices of public interest to the community are posted in the Library, space allowing. These notices are limited by the following exclusions:

    • politically partisan matter
    • outdated materials
    • for-profit advertisements
    B. Exhibits

    Exhibits of public interest occasionally are displayed in the Library, space permitting. Preference is given to materials that promote the Library and the Library collection. Also, given preference are exhibits of local and educational interest. The Library cannot be held liable for any lost, stolen or damaged exhibits or exhibit items. Any exhibitor must sign a, “Release of Liability” form (see below).

  3. Responsibility for Maintenance and Removal

    It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to set up, maintain and remove any exhibit or posting.

  4. Request for Withdrawal/Objection procedure

    Whenever a patron objects to the presence or absence of an exhibit, that complaint will be given hearing. All complaints to staff members are referred to the Library Director who will discuss the matter with the complainant. If the patron wishes, they will be supplied with a, “Request for Reconsideration of Library Exhibit” form (see below). If the patron completes and signs this form, the Library Director will examine the exhibit and make a determination concerning the complaint. Exhibits subject to such a review are not removed before the decision is made. If the complainant is not satisfied with the Library Director’s decision, they may appeal to the Board of Trustees. A determination by the Board is final.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees 11/16/1994; revised 5/11/2011; revised 1/11/17