Community information

Policy Number: E-4
Policy Title: Community information
Category: Operational Policies: Facilities
Adopted: October 2002
Last review: March 2023

Background:

As part of its role to provide informational services of all types to the community, the library will collect and make available community information about a variety of topics.

Policy:

1 Collection of community information
The library will make every attempt to maintain a current collection of community information about topics including:
● municipal services
● community groups
● educational organizations
● health and social services agencies
● community events

Library staff will endeavour to be knowledgeable about community agencies and organizations and refer people appropriately. The library will work with community partners to improve its ability to make referrals.

2 Display of community information
The library will provide display space to community groups for the purpose of advertising services and events. Display spaces include:
● bulletin boards in the lobby
● display racks in the lobby
● other areas of the library as approved by the CEO
Display of community information does not constitute an endorsement by the library or the Library Board.

All material for display must be submitted to library staff for approval and posted by staff. Display is contingent on the availability of space, and the library reserves the right to remove any flier or brochure at any time without explanation. Priority will be given to local events in Perth, Drummond/North Elmsley Township, or Tay Valley Township, with other material displayed as space allows.

Material for display should fit into one of the following categories:
● notices of library programs, events, or services
● notices of community interest from government, educational, or non-profit agencies
● notices of cultural, educational, and recreational events

Material must not contravene the Ontario Human Rights Code or any local, provincial, or federal laws or regulations. The library will not display:
● for-profit advertising material from commercial enterprises
● material of a primarily partisan political or religious nature (although fliers advertising events tied to political or religious groups may be accepted at the CEO’s discretion)
● personal ads and notices, including notices of items for sale or rent
● multiple copies of the same posting

Any complaints or appeals should be directed to the CEO, who has authority to make a final decision.