As far as the patio goes, I think that it would be pretty simple to have a
rule that you will only put individual names on the bricks (either those of
the purchaser or of the person they wish to honor). But I feel differently
about the bulletin boards. The library is a marketplace of ideas, even (or
maybe especially) unpopular ideas. As long as you treat all groups equally,
and allow flyers for all non-profits, you should be covered.

Janet Wilson, Director
Rangeley Public Library

-----Original Message-----
From: Maine Libraries Discussion List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of Pamela Dunning
Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2016 9:59 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MELIBS-L] policy request

Good morning.

 

I am in need of a policy that would cover the Library refusing to post
political or religious materials. The practice here has always been to post
notices for non-profits programs only. We have never had a written policy as
handling a bulletin board didn't seem to call for one.

 

Recently, the Library began a fundraising project where patrons can buy and
engraved brick and have it placed in a patio on the property here. A patron
came in yesterday to purchase a brick with "Choose Life", the anti-abortion
slogan on it. This is an obvious political agenda and could be a problem. I
can already imagine the answering bricks that could arise. Our patio could
become an argument in action.

 

Suggestions are not only welcome but actively solicited here. 

 

Best wishes, Pam

 

Pam Dunning, Director

Wiscasset Public Library