The library supports its mission of connecting people with ideas and information by developing and presenting programs that provide additional opportunities to enrich, empower, educate, and entertain. Programming is an integral component of library services that:
- Expands the library's role as a community resource
- Introduces patrons and non-users to library resources
- Provides entertainment
- Provides opportunities for lifelong learning
- Expands the visibility of the library
This policy is intended to cover library managed and library sponsored programs as well as programs that are library partnerships with external organizations. Not all programs and events that occur in the library are covered by this policy. The library's meeting (Community) room can be used by the public without being defined as library programming and is governed by the Meeting Room Use Policy.
The library's staff uses the following criteria in making decisions about library sponsored program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:
- Relevance to community needs, interests and issues
- Availability of program space
- Treatment of content for intended audience
- Presentation quality
- Presenter background/qualifications in content area
- Budget
- Historical or educational significance
- Connection to other community programs, exhibitions or events
- Relation to library collections and resources
Programs are not used for commercial, religious, or partisan purposes or the solicitation of business. Any sales of books/associated materials may be conducted only within the timeframe of a scheduled author/presenter/performer appearance and must receive prior approval from the Library Director or an appointee.
Programs sponsored by the library within the library or at off-site library events may be photographed or video-recorded by library staff or its representatives for use on the library's website or social media pages.
If a patron questions a library program, they should first address the concern with a library staff member. Patrons who are electors for the Rossford School District Public Library and desire to request a review of library programs may submit the Request for Reconsideration form.
After receiving a completed Request for Reconsideration, the Library Director will appoint an ad hoc committee of three professional staff to consider the request. The Director will respond in writing to the patron.
Adopted by Rossford Public Library Board of Trustees 7/31/2024