Purpose and Principles
This policy establishes guidelines for Library displays and exhibits to ensure the thoughtfully and balanced presentation of materials. The primary purpose of a display or exhibit is to encourage patrons to explore the Library’s collection by highlighting materials in a way that is engaging, informative, and relevant. Displays and exhibits should feature a variety of viewpoints, including those
that may differ or conflict, in order to provide a more complete and well-rounded understanding of a topic.
By offering materials that represent multiple perspectives, displays and exhibits help patrons think critically, consider new ideas, and reflect more deeply. This approach encourages respectful dialogue and fosters lifelong learning.
Display and Exhibit Guidelines
All display and exhibit content must be appropriate for a general audience and selected with sensitivity to all patrons who use the Library, including children, teens, and adults. Materials should be chosen carefully to maintain a safe, respectful, and customer-friendly environment.
- Balanced Representation of Viewpoints
Displays and exhibits should include more than one point of view when appropriate for the topic. For straightforward or factual subjects such as gardening, cooking, or seasonal activities, a single perspective may be sufficient. However, for more complex topics, especially those that explore the histories, cultures, contributions, or lived experiences of individuals or communities protected under federal nondiscrimination laws—including but not limited to those defined by race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, or disability—it is important to present a variety of perspectives. This approach encourages patrons to think critically, consider differing viewpoints, and reflect more deeply. The goal is not to promote a single opinion but to support understanding and lifelong learning through broader representation. - Age-Appropriate and General Audience Content
All displays and exhibits must feature materials that are appropriate for the intended location and audience. Displays and exhibits in youth and teen areas must include only materials from those collections. - No Defamation or Libel
Materials must not include false or misleading statements that could harm the reputation of individuals or groups. - No Commercial Promotion
Displays and exhibits may not be used to advertise or promote private businesses, products, or services. - Maintain a Respectful Environment
Displays and exhibits should encourage curiosity, reflection, and civil engagement. Materials that could reasonably provoke hostility, disrupt library operations, or create an unwelcoming environment should be avoided. - No Partisan Political Advocacy
Displays and exhibits may not be used to endorse or oppose political candidates, parties, or ballot measures. Educational content related to civics, history, or public issues may be included, but materials must be presented without political bias.
District-Wide Displays and Exhibits
In support of the library’s mission to reflect the richness of the communities it serves, the Library will select district-wide displays and exhibits centered on heritage months and other significant cultural, historical, or social themes. These themes will be selected on an annual basis by a committee consisting of the Chief Executive Officer, Director of Collection Services, Chief Communications and Engagement Officer, and Director of Adult and Youth Services or as otherwise designated by the Chief Executive Officer.
Branch-Level Displays and Exhibits
Branch-level displays and exhibits may be selected by the Branch Manager or their designee, however, all display content must align with the principles and criteria described herein.
Not Endorsing Content
The display or exhibit of materials by the Library does not imply endorsement of the content.
Representing Multiple Viewpoints
The Library strives to represent a range of perspectives while ensuring all viewpoints are treated fairly and respectfully.
Display and Exhibit Review
All proposed displays and exhibits will be subject to review by the Branch Manager to ensure compliance with this policy. There may be occasions when a patron is concerned about a particular display or exhibit in the Library. In such cases, patrons are encouraged to discuss their concerns with branch staff. If a patron wishes the Library to formally reconsider the inclusion, placement, or age appropriateness of any particular display or exhibit, a Library Content Reconsideration Form may be submitted under Policy D033.
No action will be taken regarding the display or exhibit during the review process unless previously planned, e.g., if a display or exhibit is due to be replaced because of a new month.
Effective July 1, 2025