4.4 Exhibits Policy

In keeping with the Springfield Town Library’s overall philosophy of providing access to a wide range of information sources, the Library provides bulletin board space for local non-profit events and activities. Programs and events publicized through the Library’s bulletin boards and/or display racks should be compatible with the Library’s purpose of providing educational, cultural, recreational, and information services to the community.

Permission shall be given based upon the limitations of display space, the timeliness of the material, and the relevance of the material to the civic, educational, informational, cultural, recreational, or vocational life of the community. The library will not display personal advertisements, solicitations, surveys, for-profit, or commercial materials. Staff may make exceptions for announcements of educational opportunities provided by profit making businesses, or items including a variety of beneficiaries. Political materials may provide non-partisan information on ballot issues and information on non-partisan races.

Authorization for all postings will be based upon the provisions of this policy and will not be based upon the viewpoint, beliefs, or affiliations of the non-profit group or the viewpoints expressed in the material. Posting or distribution of any such material in the Library does not indicate Library endorsement of the ideas, issues, or events promoted by that material. 

Furthermore, recognizing its role in the community as a limited public forum for the open discussion of ideas from all viewpoints and to promote access to the political process for all citizens, the Library provides space for all petitions (including nomination petitions for elective office) on an equal basis.  While individual employees may sign any posted petition as part of their First Amendment rights, it is understood that providing space for such does not indicate endorsement for any petition or candidate, and the views expressed are not those of the Library, its Board of Trustees, or the Town of Springfield. 

Exhibits of items or services offered for profit will not be allowed without the consent of the Board of Trustees.  Exhibits of items for sale by non-profit groups may be allowed at the discretion of the Library Director.  Recognizing the unique role of writers, artists and craftspeople in Vermont, the Library Director may allow exhibits of their works, which are for sale.  Prices will not be given as part of the exhibit but will be made available upon request.

The Library does not insure articles exhibited and assumes no responsibility or liability for damage or theft.  Exhibitors are encouraged to make their own arrangements for insurance. 

Regulations:

  1. All notices, posters, and free literature must be approved and placed on the bulletin board or in the display racks by library staff. Items found posted without permission will be removed. All notices should be left at the Circulation Desk for staff approval.

  2. Locally-oriented newspapers/magazines available for free distribution will be accepted as space permits.

  3. Advertised events should occur within 30 days. Notices advertising dated activities will be removed as soon as the event is over. Notices about services or events with no end date will be displayed for a period not to exceed 30 days.

  4. The Library assumes no responsibility for the preservation or protection of material posted or distributed. Material will not be returned.

  5. Preference will be given to posters 8 ½ x 11 inches and under.  Poorly constructed posters or flyers will not be posted.

Disagreements concerning any aspect of this policy may be appealed to the Springfield Town Library Board of Trustees.



Initial Adoption Date:  to be determined

Modified Dates

February 5, 1980-

*"Groups and individuals may apply to the library director for permission to prepare a display or exhibit for use in the library. Most displays and exhibits in the library should relate specifically to the objectives of the library as stated in the policy manual."
*"Displays of items being sold by non-profit groups are allowed at the discretion of the library director. Displays for profit will not be allowed without the consent of the Board of Library Trustees.” 

*"Recognizing the unique role artists and craftspeople play in Vermont, the library director may allow exhibits of works which are for sale. Prices will not be given as part of the exhibit but will be made available at the desk." 

*"Political campaign material will be placed in a pamphlet file and not on open display.' 

October 8, 2019 - Regulations added

January 14, 2020 - Separated from Meetings and Exhibits policy with revision

September 11, 2024 -Clarified limited public forum