Worthington Public Library
Display of Community Information
Philosophy:
The display of community information complements the Worthington Public Library System's mission of providing access to a wide range of information and viewpoints. The Library adheres to the principle of providing materials representing many points of view because providing access to information can raise public awareness of issues and concerns, help people become better informed and give them the tools necessary to form their own opinions.
In keeping with the Library Bill of Rights:
- materials will not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation;
- materials will not be removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval;
- exhibit space is available on a first–come, first–served basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals or groups requesting its use.
The display of materials at the Library DOES NOT imply endorsement by the Library.
Policy:
Community Information
Designated space is available for display of community information. This space is available, at the discretion of the Manager of each library location, to non–profit organizations engaged in intellectual, charitable, civic, cultural, educational and/or recreational activities. The primary purpose of the display must be to inform the public of the organization's programs, services and events.
Display space may NOT be used by for–profit groups, companies, organizations or individuals. Commercial advertising, solicitations and business cards may not be posted.
Preference is given to local organizations and events.
Voter Information
To aid voters in becoming better informed about ballot issues and candidates, the Library displays and distributes literature representing all points of view. In the month prior to an election, the Library will display and distribute voter information and campaign literature for issues and candidates appearing on local ballots. The Worthington Public Library System will issue a general press release at least a month before each election, requesting that election information be sent to the Library for display and distribution. The Library assumes no responsibility for contacting individuals or committees if appropriate campaign literature is not received by the Library after the announcement in the news media. The manager of each Library location will determine how and where such literature is displayed or distributed.
Campaign literature will be accepted for display or distribution only after the press release appears in the news media. Flyers and brochures may not exceed 8 1/2 x 14 in size and quantity may not exceed 500 per delivery. Campaign material that is not literature (including, but not limited to, bumper stickers, yard signs, and campaign buttons) will not be considered for display or distribution. All campaign materials will be removed from display or distribution in each library on the day after the election and discarded.
In addition, the Worthington Public Library will continue to distribute copies of the election brochure published by the League of Women Voters and to include links to election information on the Library's Web site.
