Library Programs Policy

At its regular meeting last evening, the Library Board approved a new Library Programs Policy, which takes effect tomorrow.

As FCPL continues to grow and as library programming continues to evolve to meet and exceed community expectations, it is important to define our library programming values and standards and to make patrons and staff aware of them.

Having a library programming policy ensures consistency and formalizes our decision-making process for programs. It also provides public notice and clear guidelines for expectations that staff, patrons, and presenters can reference. It also serves as a reminder to staff of program-related expectations and actions needed or required.

Finally, having a library programming policy will help prevent FCPL from offering programs by individuals or businesses wanting to provide library programs for solicitation purposes. It will also empower and support library staff in declining program proposals that fall under this category.

Please let Tracy or me know if you have any questions about this policy.

Library Programs Policy

Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) provides programs for all ages that are educational, cultural, or informational, supporting the library’s mission to champion literacy, lifelong learning, and personalized service to all patrons. 

A library program is an event that is sponsored or organized by FCPL. An event sponsored or organized by a group or individual who has reserved a library meeting room is not a library program. 

All library programs are free and open to the public. Library programs may represent a wide range of ideas and viewpoints. All programs may not be appealing to or appropriate for all patrons. All attendees must abide by the Patron Behavior Policy, and those who violate this policy or otherwise disrupt a program may be asked to leave.

Available space in programs is dependent on the maximum occupancy designated by the Fire Marshal and stipulations set by FCPL or by the presenter. Prior registration may be required for some programs. On-site ticketing may be utilized for some programs to ensure that patrons are admitted in the order of arrival and that maximum room occupancy is not exceeded.

FCPL will make reasonable modifications to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy all of its programs. People who require special accommodations to attend or participate in a program should alert the library no later than 48 hours before the scheduled program.

FCPL provides virtual programs instead of in-person programs during times the library is closed for an extended period of time or when in-person programs are discouraged for health or other reasons, and provides some virtual programs to supplement in-person programs during times the library is open.

Presenters may not conduct library programs for the purpose of selling goods or services. Solicitation of any kind, including requiring attendees to provide names or contact information, is not allowed. Attendees may share their unsolicited contact information or obtain contact information from presenters at their own discretion.

Authors and musicians may sell copies of their books and music that are specifically related to the program, with prior approval by library staff. The purchase of materials is not necessary to attend or participate in a library program. Forsyth County Public Library Friends and Advocates may sell items at library programs, with prior approval from library staff.

The decision to provide or sponsor a library program rests solely with library staff. Even if a program has been offered previously, the library is under no obligation to offer the program again. Program proposals by members of the community may be considered, but the library is under no obligation to provide the proposed program(s).

All presenters must agree to the terms of the Forsyth County Public Library Program Agreement.