Meeting Room

The use of Library facilities for meetings is part of the Library's overall program of service and, in accordance with the Library Bill of Rights, is available to the public on an equal basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individual or group requesting their use.  In granting meeting space, the Library will not seek to censor or amend the content of the meeting, nor does it endorse the opinions expressed. All attendees shall abide by the Guidelines for Library Behavior (section 3.9).

Individuals wishing to use the Library for meetings may apply to the Library Director for permission by submitting the Meeting Room Application form attached herein as Appendix W.  Such meetings must be free and open to the public, must not interfere with access to Library services, and must meet the goals of the Library as stated in this Policy Manual.  Groups or individuals denied the use of Library facilities may appeal to the Library Board of Trustees.

Recognizing the lack of accessible space in Springfield, the Library Director may allow meetings for the disabled or other special groups, which are not open to the public, providing they can demonstrate reasonable need and otherwise comply with the Library Policy and Meeting Area Regulations (Appendix W).

The Library Director will only schedule meetings for those who can demonstrate that they will be responsible for the building and its contents, and who have signed and completed a Meeting Area Regulations & Application Form.  Individuals and groups using the Library will be responsible for custodial fees and other services provided.

Initial Adoption Date: to be determined

Modified Date(s):

• February 5, 1980: "Groups and individuals wishing to use the library for public meetings may apply to the library director for permission. Such meetings must be free and open to the public, must not seriously interfere with library service, and must meet the objectives of the library as spelled out in paragraph I."
  * "The library director will only schedule meetings for those who can demonstrate that they will be responsible for the library building and its contents. Groups and individuals using the library will be responsible for janitorial and other services."
  *"Recognizing the lack of space in Springfield accessible to the handicapped and other special groups, the library director may allow these groups to use library facilities for meetings which are not open to the public, provided they do not interfere with library service. The same restrictions as are detailed above apply to closed meetings." 

• 3/10/2020: Separated from the Exhibits and Meetings Policy.

• September 11, 2024: Clarified the correct form to use