I. Displays and Exhibits
All permanent or semi-permanent exhibits offered for display in the library must be approved by the Library Board of Trustees. Temporary displays (up to two months duration) may be used at the discretion of the Library Director, or designee.
All artwork or display materials will be given reasonable care and protection within the limits of the general operation of the library, but Park Forest Public Library and its Board of Trustees do not assume responsibility for damages or loss suffered on its premises, nor the cost of insurance coverage. Such costs, losses, damages, etc., are understood to be the responsibility of the individual providing the display. Park Forest Public Library does not carry insurance on any items owned by the artist or contributor.
II. Notices and Handouts
Areas where handouts may be placed are to publicize library and library-related programs, activities, services, and materials, and to post required legal notices. Priority shall be given to these needs.
Limited space is available in the library for not-for-profit, non-commercial organizations to post notices and leave handouts of educational, cultural, or civic nature.
No notice shall be posted, nor any handout displayed, without the approval of the Community Engagement Manager, or the Library Director or designee. Organizations or individuals may not post notices or place handouts themselves; this will be done by library staff after approval of the notice or handout. The library reserves the right to determine exactly where a notice or handout will be located, and how it will be displayed.
Notices and handouts shall be removed and disposed of after they have become outdated, or earlier if, in the opinion of designated library staff, they have been displayed for a reasonable period, and space is needed for other material.
III. General
The library reserves the right to refuse or remove and dispose of any notice, or handout which does not comply with these policies and guidelines.
The library’s facilities shall not be used to promote or advertise, whether directly or indirectly, a for-profit product or service; that advocates the election of specific candidates or seeks to influence the votes of a legislative body or the policy decisions of a governmental body; or to urge support of or opposition to any religion or religious belief. No material which is obscene, defamatory, invades a particular person’s privacy, or directly incites violence may be displayed or posted. Prices may not be affixed to any material on display, although an exhibitor’s name, address, and telephone number may be posted. Materials and equipment, which, in the opinion of the Library Director or designee, are potentially dangerous to library users, staff, or property may not be brought into any area of the Library.
People shall not solicit money or donations in the library; nor may any non-library related receptacle be placed in the library soliciting donations. Notices and handouts announcing or promoting fund-raising programs and activities sponsored by not-for-profit, non-commercial organizations will be permitted, provided the requirements stipulated in this policy are met.
Library sponsored organizations such as the Friends of the Park Forest Public Library and the Park Forest Historical Society may have special sales or promotions in the library. Any similar activity by another organization or individual is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Library Board of Trustees.
Use of library space by an organization or individual does not constitute library sponsorship of that organization or individual or the viewpoints or activities they promote. Advertisements or announcements that either directly or indirectly imply otherwise shall not be permitted.
Any situation not specifically covered above will be resolved by the Library Director.