Display of Community Information

Philosophy

The display of community information (such as flyers, posters, brochures and community newspapers) within each library building complements Worthington Libraries' mission of providing access to a wide range of information and viewpoints. Community newspapers—newspapers produced by for-profit organizations but distributed free of charge with or without advertising that contain news and feature articles relevant to the community—are accepted for distribution. The Library adheres to the principle of providing materials representing many points of view because providing access to information can raise public awareness of issues and concerns, help people become better informed and give them the tools necessary to form their own opinions.

In keeping with the Library Bill of Rights:

• materials will not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation;
• materials will not be removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval;
• exhibit space is available on a first-come, first-served basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals or groups requesting its use.

Policy

Designated space within each library is available for display of community information. This space is available, at the discretion of the manager of each library location, to non-profit organizations engaged in intellectual, charitable, civic, cultural, educational and/or recreational activities. The primary purpose of the display must be to inform the public of the organization's programs, services and events.

Because of potential hazards, including blocking traffic views, etc., the Library does not allow for the placement of signs promoting community events on its exterior property. Signs placed on library property will be removed immediately.

Material will be accepted for display or distribution within the Library on a space-available basis. Space is available at the discretion of the manager of each location. Priority will be given to Worthington Libraries publications and those publications of its support organizations. Persons desiring to distribute community materials at the Library are required to submit such materials to a circulation manager or library manager. Items submitted for distribution by individuals or organizations must meet the criteria of this library policy. Material accepted for distribution will be displayed for a reasonable period of time to be determined by the Library. The Library disposes of surplus, and/or outdated materials or materials that do not comply with this policy. The Library assumes no responsibility for the preservation of materials posted or distributed.

Preference is given to local organizations and events.

Display space may NOT be used by for-profit groups, companies, organizations or individuals. Commercial advertising, solicitations and business cards may not be posted.

Display of obscene language and sexually explicit graphics and images, as defined in sections 2907.01 and 2907.31 of the Ohio Revised Code, is prohibited.

The display of materials at the Library DOES NOT imply endorsement by the Library.

Voter Information

To aid voters in becoming better informed about ballot issues and candidates, the Library displays and distributes literature representing all points of view. In the month prior to an election, the Library will display and distribute voter information and campaign literature for issues and candidates appearing on local ballots. The Worthington Public Library System will issue a general press release at least a month before each election, requesting that election information be sent to the Library for display and distribution. The Library assumes no responsibility for contacting individuals or committees if appropriate campaign literature is not received by the Library after the announcement in the news media. The manager of each Library location will determine how and where such literature is displayed or distributed.

Campaign literature will be accepted for display or distribution only after the press release appears in the news media. Flyers and brochures may not exceed 8 1/2 x 14 in size and quantity may not exceed 500 per delivery. Campaign material that is not literature (including, but not limited to, bumper stickers, yard signs, and campaign buttons) will not be considered for display or distribution. All campaign materials will be removed from display or distribution in each library on the day after the election and discarded.

In addition, the Worthington Public Library will continue to distribute copies of the election brochure published by the League of Women Voters and to include links to election information on the Library's Web site.